Former school superintendent Clifford Smith is being remembered as a compassionate, caring educator and involved citizen of the Sunshine Coast.
Family and friends were saddened by Smith's sudden death Aug. 1. Smith collapsed during a squash game Tuesday, and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
Stewart Hercus, the present superintendent for School District No. 46, said Smith ran the district very well. Under Smith's leadership it was "the people make the district not the curriculum," Hercus said.
"He was top notch, absolutely wonderful. I was really sorry to see him retire," Hercus said.
Smith was a strong supporter of the B.C. Liberal party on the Sunshine Coast. He was the current vice president of the south end of the Powell River Sunshine Coast riding. Brian Smith (no relation), president of the local riding, said Smith would be greatly missed by the Liberal organization.
"Clifford was a very integral part of our planning process for the next three years. He has just been a real leader in the riding," Brian Smith said.
Clifford Smith also served on the Capilano College advisory committee with Brian.
"Clifford had just been elected as chair of the committee last month," Brian said.
Clifford Smith was an avid proponent of Elder College on the Coast.
In an interview with former Coast Reporter editor, James Eke, Smith said the important thing people should remember is to "think about how you live your life. Think about how you act, what you contribute to this life. And most importantly, have faith and believe in yourself."
Smith was born May 28, 1945 on the South Pacific island of Mauritius. He leaves behind wife Linda and four children: Megan, Claire, Gresham and Blake.
Funeral arrangements had not been finalized as Coast Reporter went to press Thursday afternoon.
