SMART, Valerie Anne (nee Johnson)
1952-2013
It is with great sadness that we announce that Ms. Valerie Anne Smart of Red Deer passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 31, 2013, at the age of 60 years, after a courageous battle with cancer and complications from multiple sclerosis. Valerie is survived by her mother, Eva Morris (nee Braithwaite) of Red Deer, her brother, David Johnson (Rose) of Red Deer, her sister, Beverly Johnson of Calgary, her brother, Clifford Johnson (Gail Smith) of Calgary, three nephews; Brian (Dawn), Douglas (Danielle) and Owen, two nieces; Karen Davis (Tyler) and Sydney Johnson, and great nephew, Tyler Johnson, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Valerie was predeceased by her father, Frank Johnson, in 1985.
Valerie was born in Red Deer, Alberta on December 4, 1952 and raised on farms in Sylvan Lake area through her mid-teen years. She later lived in Sylvan Lake and Red Deer. Valerie spent many years in the real estate business in the Red Deer area until her MS prevented her from continuing the work that she thoroughly enjoyed and excelled at. She won several top sales awards and made many friends in the business.
Valerie never complained about her illnesses, despite the toll that they took on her. She treated them as challenges to be dealt with as best as she could. Valerie always looked for ways to help others, despite her failing health. Her extended family and many good friends will truly miss her kindness, courage, warm personality and independent spirit.
The family would like to thank all of the medical staff who provided excellent care for Valerie at the Red Deer Hospital emergency department and Unit 32. We particularly wish to thank the wonderful caring staff at the Red Deer Hospice Society who looked after her so well during her final days. They are all truly special people.
A Memorial Service celebrating Valerie's life was held at Eventide Funeral Chapel, 4820 - 45 Street, Red Deer, on Friday, April 5, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. A reception followed the service at Bower-Kin Community Centre, 85 Boyce Street, Red Deer.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that consideration be given to making donations in Valerie's name to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 105-4807 50 Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 4A5, the Canadian Cancer Society, 4730A Ross Street, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 1X2, the Red Deer Hospice Society, 99 Arnot Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta, T4R 3S6, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting
www.eventidefuneralchapels.com.
Arrangements entrusted to
EVENTIDE FUNERAL CHAPEL
4820 - 45 Street, Red Deer. Phone (403) 347-2222