Maurice D. Smith from Kingston, Ontario passed away peacefully during the early hours of April 25th, 2026. He was born in 1939 in Northern Ontario and is deeply missed by his wife of fifty years, Ruth, their two sons Romney and Tarragon, along with their families, and a wide circle of friends. A long-time resident of Kingston, Maurice was recognized for his enthusiasm, determination, and love for life.
In 1979, he became the founding director and curator of the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes in Kingston. He helped establish it from the ground up and led it for 25 years until he retired in 2004.
Between 1962 and 1963, he managed the construction of the STV Pathfinder at Kingston shipyards for the newly formed Toronto Brigantine youth organization. He later served as captain of Pathfinder and took on various administrative roles until 1978. His influence on many young men and women-some facing challenges-who participated in Pathfinder was significant.
A memorial celebration will take place at 2pm on April 29th, 2026 at Gordon F. Tompkins Funeral Home, Central Chapel (49 Colborne St., Kingston, ON, 613-546-5454). Online condolences may be expressed at www. gftompkinscentral. ca
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tall Ships Expedition Canada or Great Lakes Museum in memory of Maurice.
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