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The men and women from our region who served in the Armed Forces during a time of war or of peace, and those who are long term Legion members and supporters are remembered on this page.
Our deepest condolences.
The oldest and longest-serving veteran at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 80, Midland, Gordon “Gord” Smith died Oct. 30, a couple of months shy of this 100th birthday.
Gord enlisted Dec. 12, 1942 at the age of 17, after telling the recruiter he was 18. Gordon served in the Second World War aboard the HMCS Algonquin (R17) a V-class destroyer. His service took him to Atlantic and Pacific oceans and the Mediterranean Sea. The Algonquin and its sister ship HMCS Sioux took part in the bombing of German warship Tirpitz and later provided gunfire support to the landings on Juno Beach, France in 1944.Smith returned home and joined the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 80 (Midland) in 1946.
Smith volunteered with the Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce executive, he was on the United Church board, he was president of the church club, and also was involved with the Baptist church.
Ian served with the Royal Air Force from May 1958 to May 1960 as an Air Defence Radio Operator. Emigrating to Canada from Dundee, Scotland, in 1963, he was a Toronto police officer of nine years, worked at TRW for 35 years, a Legion member for 50 years, and a member of the Midland pipe band for 20 years. Ian was known for his contagious smile and big heart. After a short battle with cancer, Ian is survived by his wife Babette (Babs). Loving father of Evelyn (Peter), James (late), Susan (late)(Glen), Linda (Roy), and Heather (Terry). Stepfather of Ken (late)(Kelly) and Shaun (Jen). Cherished grandfather of Stuart, Samantha, Leazel (Ryan), Jennifer, Amanda, Natalie, Brody, Tanner, and Matheson.
Born in Toronto on June 18, 1921, to George Allan and Maryanne. Norman was a veteran of World War II, fearlessly serving with the 48th Highlanders and the Royal Canadian Signal Corps. His bravery and dedication led him to the shores of Juno Beach on D-Day, where he fought valiantly to liberate France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
His selfless actions during the war exemplified his unshakeable belief in the inherent good of humanity. Following the war, Norman dedicated 35 years of his life to the Toronto Fire Department. His commitment to public service extended beyond his retirement as he became an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion and was the Midland Lions club representative of 724th RCAC Squadron. His impact on the community was immeasurable, and he was beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
His contributions to the National War Museum and National Archives, particularly through his oral history of World War II, stand as a lasting tribute to his dedication to preserving the memory of those who served.