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Keith Smith

Image by Nick Andréka

KEITH ARNOLD SMITH

September 3, 1957 - April 15, 2022

With broken hearts, we announce that Keith Arnold Smith, “Popeye” to all who knew him (nicknamed after his massive forearms), passed away suddenly on April 15, 2022. He was born September 3, 1957.


Keith had many talents. He was a fantastic artist, drawing many magical creatures and beasts, and even drew the eagle for the tattoo on his forearm. Like his middle name that means ‘eagle’, Keith was lone and mighty. He was a skilled builder, and worked in Construction his whole adult life, most of it both at PCL Construction and at Gardon Construction. He started in concrete, and later became a Supervisor. Keith took great pride in his work, and in his tools. His work was his life, and he was greatly admired. No one messed with Popeye. He has helped many people along the way, building garages, sunrooms, decks, treehouses, and much more. As a child, he entertained his younger siblings with hand puppets and voices, which will never be forgotten. He loved playing with GI Joes with his younger brother, and boxing with him. He could also pop along to the song Popcorn by flicking his cheeks like no one else.


Keith had a love for movies, fishing, his 1971 Javelin, and an even greater love for his many German Shepherds that he had throughout his life, especially Max, who went everywhere with him. He loved watching football and hockey, and playing them on video games. He also loved his shooting games, and friendly competitions of target shooting with his two younger siblings in real life. He was generous and kind to a fault.

 
Keith was the second of five children. He was predeceased by parents Edward and Jacqueline Smith, and leaves behind siblings Ed, Jo-Ann (Robert), Rod (Linda), Charlene “Baby Sister” (Dennis), his daughter Chelsea, and nieces and nephews Mandy, John, Robert, Cody, Chase, Marshall, and Maya. We are lost without you, Brother. Take your well deserved rest and be at peace.

 

A private memorial will take place with Family.

 

In lieu of flowers or donations, please be kind and generous to others, as Keith always was.

Keith's family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Denise

August 27, 2022 at 7:24 AM

So sorry to hear that Keith passed. I knew him long long time ago. Many memories. May he RIP ❤

William

June 30, 2022 at 8:50 AM

he’s he’s happy and well I got to say goodbye to him yesterday in my dreams and I’m so glad he came to visit I will always hold you in my heart and I’m sure you’ll always be there watching over me ❤️

Chelsea

June 25, 2022 at 8:06 PM

Keith also had 5 grandchildren, though circumstances never allowed them to meet him. I have very sorry to hear this. Max was incredible I remember him well. I would like to reach out to his family if possible. Thank you for remembering me in this.  Chelsea  Klassen (Hilding)

Kitana Haines

June 13, 2022 at 3:57 PM

I only knew you as grandpa to me, & I will forever still remember you as that.. rest in paradise to such an amazing man! I will never forget the treehouse you built me and my brother when we all lived together … I’ll never forget you ! You have always and will always hold a special place in my heart :(  I am so sorry I wish I could’ve said goodbye.. 

Bonnie

April 30, 2022 at 9:04 AM

Big tough Keith showing his soft side holding his newborn nephew.  

gail douglas

April 23, 2022 at 7:04 PM

so sory for your loss Keith as your parents were one of our best friends and have known you since you were little RIP   Condolences to the family from gail and roy douglas

Shane Johnson

April 23, 2022 at 10:40 AM

Popeye, we at Gardon Construction enjoyed all the years we got to spend with you!  We enjoyed all the good times on sites, myself learning things along the way from you have helped me to this day!  Keith “Popeye” you were one heck of a person and we are grateful for the time we got to spend with you!  From all the crew at Gardon Construction RIP our friend 

Lance Shaw

April 23, 2022 at 9:06 AM

So very sad to lose you my Brother I was so hoping to spend more time with you. All the great adventures together. Always fearless. Great times playing hockey behind your house (well maybe a little too much fist fighting lol) I would like a copy of this wonderful Video Tribute. Hmm the first song The Wizard was my favourite too I would like to be invited to your service as your family was always my family too I am very very sad to lose you  My deepest Condolences to your family Lance Shae

Craig

April 22, 2022 at 10:19 PM

Way to young to leave this world. My heart goes out to family and friends. Keith was as tough as nails. Had a few beers with Keith back in the day. RIP buddy. 

Tanya (Friend of “Baby Sister” Charlene)

April 22, 2022 at 1:48 PM

My heart goes out to Keith’s family and friends. Stay strong, and keep your wonderful memories close to your heart. 
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