Doug Smith was born to Gladys and Wayne Smith on February 9, 1945, in Medicine Hat, Alberta. He grew up in Medicine Hat with his brothers Laurance and Glen, and sister Jean, in an historic home shared with his Uncle Alf Baldwin and Grandmother Violet Baldwin. Originally from England, Violet purchased the family home with a loan from her employer at the Royal Hotel in Medicine Hat. As a child, Doug had a mischievous nature which often led to humorous situations, such as sneaking into a drive-in theater with friends.

Despite his early aspirations to become a commercial pilot, Doug began his career with Canadian Pacific Railway in Calgary in 1967 and retired in 2005. He found fulfillment as a conductor. At that time, he was able to bring his family onto the trains, and his sons loved blowing the horn and riding the rails. He also served as an executive of the Union, actively participating in union events and maintaining financial records for its members.

Doug is survived by his former wife, Elizabeth Sherman, and their sons, Ryan and Christopher (Christie). He is predeceased by his son, Douglas, in 2014. Doug also leaves behind three grandchildren, Ryann, Avery, and Oliver.

In addition to his railway career, Doug enjoyed camping trips around Alberta and British Columbia with his family. In 1989, Doug and Liz purchased a permanent camping lot at Carefree Resort, where he and his family enjoyed many summers together.

Doug will be remembered fondly for his devotion to his family, candid personality, and always being there when somebody needed a hand. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Doug's Life will be held later this year.

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