Shane Smith

Shane Smith, a loving husband, father, and friend passed away peacefully on August 4, 2024 in Portage la Prairie, with his family by his side.

Shane will be lovingly remembered by his daughters Megan (Rich) Sloik, Karina (Trevor) Hill, grandchildren Brooke, Bree, Rhett, and Maisie, siblings, Margo (Darryl, Sean & families), Eileen, Barry (Devon, Brendon, Shannay, Connor & families), Mary, Brian, Cal, Debbie, Kerry, Dawn, Alan, Marnie, Simon, Dayle, Erik, Lynne, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and special friends.

He is predeceased by his wife, Laurie, parents, Sean and Olive Smith, parents-in-law, Blythe and Bernie Bjornson, brothers-in-law, Rick Lancaster, John Noton, Dan Bjornson, and nephew, Rorie Smith.

Born in Mayo, Yukon on February 19, 1952, Shane’s life was a testament to his deep love for family and friends, unwavering loyalty, and extraordinary musical talent.

Shane was a devoted family man, cherishing every moment loving, laughing and bickering with his wife, Laurie, and their two children, Megan and Karina. His love for them knew no bounds, and his presence is already sorely missed. His friends knew him as a loyal companion always ready with a kind or witty word, and will be forever remembered for his warmth and generosity.

A gifted musician and songwriter, Shane’s melodies and lyrics touched the hearts of many. His passion for music was evident in every note he played, every song he sung, and every artist or “tone-deaf-little weasel” he accompanied. His songs reflected his deep soul and vibrant spirit. Some say he brought the soundtrack to our lives.

In addition to his musical talents, Shane was a dedicated school teacher. He spent over three decades inspiring young minds and nurturing their love for learning. He could see the potential in every student. Former students have reconnected with him in later years to acknowledge him as being not only an excellent teacher, but also one who genuinely cared about them reaching their full potential.

Shane’s legacy will live on through his music, the countless lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. We wish for all to celebrate his life well-lived, full of love, laughter, music, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024, at Canad Inns, Ambassador A, Portage la Prairie from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm with a program beginning at 7:30 pm. The program will be livestreamed and may be viewed by registering at the link below.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Shane may be made to the Child and Family Services of Central Manitoba Foundation 25 3rd St. SE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 1N1 https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/13689 

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021