Samuel died suddenly on September 13, 2023. He entered this world as a beautiful, spirited, wide-eyed baby. He spent his first five years in Nova Scotia where he loved to read, play, and go to the beach with his dad. He moved to Lucan, Ontario at age 6. As any young person, he was energetic, full of hope and potential, and was adored by his family. He loved his friends and was always seeking acceptance and belonging, often to a fault. He grew to be a capable musician, playing piano and guitar with ease. He played hockey, football, and soccer and then, at age 12 fell in love with the sport of lacrosse. The game was his passion, not only because of the sport but because of the sense of community that was created by coaches, specifically Ron Elijah and the London Jr. B team. Samuel was at home and at peace when he had a stick in his hand.
Unfortunately, Samuel began to struggle with addiction and mental illness at a very young age and though we don’t want this to define him, it has been a reality of his journey that we cannot ignore. Despite multiple attempts at sobriety, including a 22-month period of sobriety supported by the community he found at the Pine River Institute, he continued to fight addiction. His battle with addiction and mental illness pushed many people away from him, especially over the last two years and he found himself struggling deeply with loneliness. He faced many difficulties. Every day was a struggle.
Recently Samuel made a commitment to rebuild his relationship with his family. He soaked up stories from his Grandad and expressed after a recent visit how much “I love to hear Grandad laugh”. He learned to sew pajamas with his Grandma and they developed such a special relationship he called her his “best friend”. This past year he enjoyed visits, many laughs, and competitive games of crokinole with his Grammy, Nappy, Uncle Tony, and cousin Annah from Nova Scotia. When feeling well, he went to the gym with his mom or tried (rather poorly) to take up running with her. Every day he told her he loved her and flooded her DM with silly videos to make her laugh. He enjoyed discussing all things related to food with his dad and watching shows together. They shared the same humour, laughing with and at each other often. He took pleasure in driving his siblings crazy but always had a spunky, “Hey, girly pop!” greeting for his sister and was proud to see his little brother embrace lacrosse as he did. Samuel worked hard to connect and repair and we know he just wanted to feel love. We enjoyed a family dinner together on Sunday and had been in touch every day until he died. Despite it all, addiction won the battle but it did not win over our love for each other.
Samuel is survived by his parents, Jana Bayer-Smith and Howard Smith, his siblings Kaija and Cohen, his maternal grandparents, Ron and Barb Bayer, all of Lucan, Ontario, his paternal grandparents Howie and Sharon Smith of Ostrea Lake, Nova Scotia, his uncle Tony Smith and cousins Austin and Annah Smith of Ostrea Lake, Nova Scotia. He is predeceased by his uncle, David Bayer, who, if there is a Creator, is learning how to play lacrosse right now with his nephew.
Special thanks to all those who reached in to help Samuel and his family over the last 8 years. Samuel’s journey has ended and we will miss him dearly but our relationship with him will never end. He is loved, to the moon and back, by us all.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 223 Main Street, LUCAN on Friday, September 22nd from 5 – 8 PM. Registration is appreciated. Please click “Register Now” below to register.
Family and friends are welcome to join for a campfire and time for sharing stories of Samuel’s life on Saturday, September 23rd at Wayne and Karen Hodgin’s farm, 33721 Coursey Line, Lucan (follow the laneway to the bush behind the sheds) from 3 – 6 PM with words of remembrance at 5 PM. Please bring a chair with you.
Donations in memory of Samuel can be made to the Pine River Institute in Shelburne, Ontario, or Stratford/Perth Shelterlink.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Millie kuhn
Dear Jana and Howie So sorry for your loss my prays are with you and family In ever knew your son but I’m sure he was a great young man please take care love to all aunt sis (Millie)
Craig Johnson
Dear Jana and Howie, I can’t tell you how sorry I am to hear of your loss. I’m not sure if you will remember me. I am the other Sam’s father. We met at Pine River and we did our “intensive” together. I can still remember the stories we shared and I remember the impact that your Sam had on the other kids at PRI, including our own Sam. My heart goes out to you. Craig Johnson
Calvin Pettipas
Hey Howie, so sorry to hear about your loss. I can’t imagine what yourfamily and you must be going through at this point in your journey through life. Although I have never met your son Sam I’m sure of one thing his memory will shine brightly being a descendant of you. Take care my friend my heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time.
Donna/Dennis Shoebttom
No words can ease the pain of your loss.
Remember happier times with Sam.
Don Lankin
The Smith Family Grandparents Ron & Barb Bayer So sorry for your tragic loss my deepest condolences.
Devin Heywood
Dear Howard and Jana and family my condolences I remember like it was yesterday I was still living a mom and dads just two houses over when we lived on Duchess Ave. Howie & Sam would come over and play hockey on our rink alongside his passion for music hey truly made your day when you needed it and was good for a smile as well my prayers are with him
Lori Kraul
Dear Jana, Howard, Kaija and Cohen
Ron and Barb
It is with deep sadness, tears and many prayers for comfort and peace for you all that I send my condolences.
We watched Samuel grow up as he walked by our home going to and from school. He always had a friendly greeting and a smile that lit up his face!
He was a great big brother watching over Kaija and Cohen.
I saw Samuel recently in downtown Lucan and he still greeted me with his kind words and his smile that warmed my heart, like he was my best friend.
Thanks for sharing Samuel’s story.
He Blessed many people with his life!
I continue to pray Blessings of God’s strength, peace and may His everlasting Love surround you all.
Love and Prayers
‘Teacher’ Lori
Steve Stewart
I was thrilled to meet Sam eight years ago and had the pleasure of sharing the summer with him. He was a quiet leader, a talented athlete and a generous coach – stringing lacrosse sticks and helping friends learn the game he loved. He had a captivating smile and a kind heart. I had the opportunity to reconnect on a drive to Algonquin with him a couple of years ago and hoped he could overcome his struggles. I enjoyed every minute I shared with Sam and I am so very sorry for your loss.
Carrie
My heart goes out to Sam’s family. Such a beautiful tribute written with authenticity, bravery and courage. What a wonderful light that will now continue to shine from above. I will never forget the first time I had the pleasure to meet Sam. I had come to PRI for a tour with my son Mason. It was a difficult day for both Mason and me. Sam was our PRI advocate and tour guide. What an incredible, well spoken and lovely young man he was. He was welcoming, informative, reassuring, patient and had such beautiful energy. He inspired me and gave me so much hope. Sam easily connected with my son Mason, who also loved and played the many sports Sam did. My son made one of the most life changing decisions to attend PRI as a result of Sam. I will forever be grateful to Sam for the difference he made to our family. Rest in peace Sam. Our deepest sympathies to the family. ❤️
Natalie Hosey
I was friends with Sam for my first and second year of university, he was one of the first people I met. I remember visiting him while he was staying at a health centre in guelph and he spoke of how proud he was to be a big brother. I will never forget his witty sense of humour, positive energy and all the videos he would show playing spanish romance on guitar. He was a kind soul. Sending Sam’s family my sincerest love and condolences…Sam will be deeply missed.
Sherri Penn
To Sam’s family,
I’m so very sorry for your tragic loss. I have gotten to know Sam over the last couple of years and my heart holds a very dear place for him. He always had a gentle smile and a kind word for us. Sam was so loved and supported by all of you, this was clearly evident from the stories he shared each visit. He will walk beside you always. Never stop saying his name or sharing the stories of his life. Sam will be forever remembered and in our hearts. Sending you endless love, caring and prayers 💙
Sherri Penn
Mason
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sam was an amazing and genuine person. He was determined and he lead by Example. It was a true honour to get to know sam , during my stay at pri. And he was one of the main reasons I ended up going to pri in the first place after he directed my tour it made me think of the endless possibilities for my future. I’m forever grateful for sam. He will be missed dearly.
Taylor Marshman
Hi, my name’s Taylor and I went into the PRI program and Sam was one of the first guys I met when I got to the school and I looked up to him big time. Everyone loved Sam and he kinda took care of everyone (the boys). I haven’t talked to Sam in a long time but I truly wish I did. He always brought a smile to my face and made me feel comfortable and I’m forever grateful for that.
Cindy White
Howard , Jana ,Ron and Barbara and family,
Words alone cannot tell you how much my heart breaks for all all you. Sam’s struggles are over but you are all left with the devastation of losing him. You have all stood by him but the pull of addiction is powerful. I admire your courage and the honesty in writing about it. You are left with painful memories but remember the good memories also. Thinking of all of you.
Cindy White (Lucan Drug Mart)
Carole
I am so sorry for your tragic loss. My son Dylan was at PRI and a good friend of Sam’s. As a parent I can empathize with your pain, struggles & immense love for your son. May he be at peace.
Sarah Proctor
Jana, Howie Kaija and Cohen,
Samuel was the first person that I saw when we brought Maggie to Pine River for our initial intake meeting. He was sitting beside one of the portables reading a book and looked up at us a smiled. He looked so happy and it made me feel that it was a good place and that Maggie would be perfectly ok. I remember meeting you and Howie at our parent intensive and how I immediately felt such a connection to you. The way you spoke about Samuel, your love for him and how you helped him agree to find help was incredible. His story broke my heart. I have thought of Samuel so much over the years and always hoped that he reconnected with you all. I was so happy to read that he had ❤️.
His passing is a tragic loss.
Sending you love xoxo
PATRICIA BARRINGTON
Condolences Jana to you and your family. My heart breaks for the loss of your Samuel your first born. I have fond memories of Samuel when I visited you at your home in Musquodoboit Harbour. Sending all my love and hugs.
Lucy Petrie
Rest easy Samuel. My heart is with the entire Smith family as they navigate this devastating loss
John and Marie Martens
Our sincere condolences on your loss of Samuel. We have memories of what nice young man he was when you lived next to us on Duchess Ave. In Lucan.
May memories of happier times bring you peace and comfort.
John and Marie Martens
The Manders
Our heart breaks for your family. So sorry for your sadness and loss. Please know we are thinking of you all with deepest sympathy.
🕯️🕊️❤️
Dave, Shannon, Jesse, Rachel & Blake Manders
Cindy Fisher Bailey
Jana and family, our condolences to you all on the loss of your son and brother Samuel . May he Rest In Peace
Cindy
Aidan
I went to Pine River with Sam. He was there my first week in algonquin and made me feel welcome. We really connected over sports and past stories. We were close at Pine River and hung out multiple times after. Always loved Sam, always brought positive vibes and had good leadership abilities.
Kim Ryckman
Dear Jana and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your son’s passing and his journey (as we continue to struggle with our son). I wish more families could talk. Please accept my sincere condolences and know my heart is with you.
Kim Ryckman
Christina Van Poucke and Dree Park
Jana, Howard, Kaija and Cohen – we are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Tammy and Dave Steeper
Jana and Howie, there truly are no words. We are so deeply saddened by this news. Dave and I have many fond memories of Sam. He was always so very polite and respectful when at our home. Our hearts ache for you all. Sending you our love, and deepest condolences. Rest in the sweetest peace Sam ❤️
Lisa, Savanna and JT Carter
Jana and family we are so sorry for your loss. Sending you prayers from our house to yours.
Brenda Morley
Despite his own troubles, Sam was always a caring and good friend to Jared. When in our home he was always respectful & chatted with Steve & I. This past winter and spring, Sam was brave & courageous enough to share glimpses of his story, his fears & regrets with us. My deepest condolences to everyone who loved Sam. Sam may you rest in peace and run free. You are missed. 💔
Stefanie Condon-Oldreive
It has been over 30 years since I have seen you both, Jana and Howie (I am not sure how we are that old), but I have often kept up with your beautiful family activities through Howie’s posts. Please know that your family has been in my thoughts since the loss of your wonderful son Samuel. Through your heartfelt and honest obituary and the posts of so many others who knew Samuel, it is obvious that he was a wonderful young man, who touched the lives of so many, even while battling a beast. Hugs to you all.
Crystal Chabassol
Our heartfelt condolences to your whole family. Hopefully he can finally be at rest with his uncle David. Xo. Crystal Hogg-Chabassol
Suzy
Jana and Howie, my heart hurts for your family. Sam will always remember the beautiful weekly letters that he treasured . Family and love meant everything to him. I am sorry for your loss.
Mary Lou Bilcke
I am so sorry for your loss.
kim walker
Howard, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I understand the struggle of addiction , the pain that it causes and the devastation it leaves in its path. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family. Rest in peace Sam.
Kirk
Howie, Jana and family, with great sympathy, my condolences.
I never had the pleasure of meeting Samuel. I heard wonderful tales and every person that told a story of Samuel’s, always had a smile on their face. That left an impression on me. It takes a special person to make so many feel as Samuel did.
I hope time will dull the pain of your loss, but never dilute the love of Samuel and family.
Rachel
My son, Seamus cared so much for Sam. I have listened to my son’s stories of Sam and his warmth. I met your son once at Pine River. It was summer and he came into the room from some outside sport with energy, purpose, bright-eyed enthusiasm. I remember the impression he made that day so well. I’m very sad for you.
Luca T
Sam was one of the coolest people i’ve ever met, and I will always be grateful i got to be his friend.
Amy Shapton
Jana and Family,
My deepest condolences to you. I hope that you are able to find comfort in the memories of Samuel during this difficult time and in the journey ahead. Sending love and hugs and keeping you in my thoughts.
Dylan Mills
So sorry for your loss Sam was a best friend to me he will always be remembered forever. May he Rest in Peace
Wendy Dann
Our hearts go out to you and your family. Rest in peace Samuel.
Dianne Girdler
I did not know Tony, but your obituary made me cry. I can tell how much he was loved and I am so very sorry for your loss.
Sarah Hubbard
Jana and family we are so sorry for your loss of Samuel. Sending you hugs and prayers from our house to yours.
Danielle Furney
Dear Jana I’m so saddened to hear of this profound loss. Your family has been through so much and you are all in my thoughts. I will always remember Samuel as a sweet blond two year old playing at the beach with Elliot.
All my love,
Danielle
Harindee
My brother Rochana was a good friend of Sam’s, and they met each other at pine river. I am really heartbroken to hear about his loss. I just want to say I understand the real struggle of battling addiction and mental health.
I am so sorry that Sam has lost his battle and that your lives will never be the same without him. It breaks my heart and I feel your pain. May you have the courage to keep going with Sam always in your heart.
Bobbi lee Nixon
My heart aches for you and your family Jana and Howie I remember his handsome face in grand primary with my daughter sending condolences and prayers !!!
Angie Heywood
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. We haven’t seen Sam for quite a while but he was always respectful and polite to us and a friend of both Rachel and Ryan. He will be missed 💕
Lynn (Philpitt) Davis
Howie and family,
Sending you our deepest sympathies in the loss of Samuel. I am sad for you as parents, having to cope with such loss. Samuel was such a beautiful young man. I wish you healing and love.
Your lil cousin
Shelley Toivonen
On behalf of myself, my brothers and sister and our families, I send our sincerest condolences on the loss of your Samuel. Our love and prayers are with you. We hope you find peace in each other’s arms.
With love
The Frank Marks offspring!
Lana Gibbs
Kaija…my thoughts are with you and your family. You have my deepest sympathy. Take care.
Jill
My heart is broken for you Jana.
What a beautifully written obituary.
Samuel, say hello to David for me.
Peace
Jodi Greig
Sending sincere condolences to you Jana, Howard, Kaija, Cohen, and your extended families. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Christine Hayden
We are thinking of you and your family at this very difficult time, our deepest condolences.
Rebecca Shearer
I am sadden to hear this news, but must say Samuel’s story was well written and shows the strength of family and of Samuel’s resolve to reconnect. Enjoy his stories.
Heidi
Jana and Howie, I have such a profound sense of sadness learning of Samuel’s passing, yet I know my sadness is only a small fraction to what you are experiencing. My deepest sympathies to you and your entire families.
Eric Varillas
Oh, Jana, I’m so sorry for your loss. Please know that Susan’s and my thoughts are with you and your family. Lots of hugs and love.
George and Sue Wilson
Jana and Howard and family, we are very saddened on your loss of your son and brother. Cherish your precious memories. May your faith, family and friends give you peace and comfort in the upcoming months. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Janis Dougall
Jana and family: We are so saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved Samuel. I remember you telling me his story and his struggles and how heartbreaking as a mother, it was. I know that you and your family did everything possible to help him. Hang onto your memories of all the good times. It sounds like he really wanted to leave his family with some good memories and he was making sure everyone knew he cherished them.
Roger and Janis Dougall
Karen Congram
Deepest condolences
Tracy McLennan
Jana, Howard, Kaija, Cohen, and family,
My deepest condolences to you on the passing of Sam. May the love of your family and friends wrap around you, and may the many happy memories you have of your son/brother give you comfort today and the days ahead. Thinking of you.
Tracy
Seamus Scime
Sam and I met in Algonquin Park. He was coming back to the OLE for a few weeks and I was going out there from the school. That week we made ourselves a good friendship which we kept together despite the distance and not being able to see eachother much. He was such a charming guy haha, that whole week out there he just resonated good vibes.
Later when Sam lived in Kingston we got to hang out a decent bit. We never really did anything special we actually just sat around talking for hours but that itself was special. Sam was so kind and welcoming, it was refreshing to go see him because he just cared. All the time I spent with him there in Kingston I felt cared for which was so beautiful. He just truely cared about me and was interested in me which is so pure and rare I think. He always was so happy and glad and I loved hanging out with him. He was so honest too he would talk about anything. We talked about family a lot during that time and he always would talk about how he wanted to make things right with his family and repair and spend time and just have that family love. I always really hoped that would happen because he so genuinely wanted it.
From those days in Kingston we never saw eachother again but we kept up texting and calling a bit. We were gonna go tree plant together this summer which would have been cool but its a tough jump to get up north with the gear and do it. Thinking now though I’m glad we didnt because I’m happy he spent that time at home in Lucan with you guys. I think he got that family time, what he always said he wanted back in Kingston and that makes me really happy to know. He sent me a photo one day of the dinner table looking out on the back yard. It looked so peaceful. We talked 4 days ago, he told me about his place in Stratford and he seemed glad about it. Him, Rochana and I were gonna hang out over the holidays when we all could. Sitting here now I wish we still could, I’d love to be around his cheer and charm again.
Seamus
James
Howie & Family
So sorry for your loss thinking of your family
Jamie Williams
Glenda Richard
Howie Jana and family I am so sorry to hear this sad news.Having just lost Tanya .I know how difficult this is and pray that the journey ahead will be less difficult knowing Samuel is at peace.
Brenda MacKenzie MacKenzie
So very sorry for the pain you are suffering. He has his wings now and is in no pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. God Bless💕💕
Debi Bryans
So sorry for your loss. But for the grace of God go I . As a parent we do our best but we have no control of so many things. My heart breaks for you and your family
Zenta, Dan, Sam and Emile
We are so very sorry for your loss. We have so many memories of your Samuel and our Sam as little blonde headed monkeys making mischief wherever they went. There was always a sparkle in your beautiful boy’s eyes and he will be missed. Sending you all our love and strength. ❤️
Colleen Gibbons
I’m so saddened by the news of Samuel’s passing. Know that you are in our thoughts and we are sending hugs to your family from Nova Scotia. Jacob and Zach enjoyed spending time with Sam in their early years
Love Colleen Gibbons (MacDonald)
Ro
Sam was a great friend he really loved all the people around him i’ll miss him so much
Doreen Matthews
God Bless you all
Natalie Phillips
I never met Sam, but I am deeply saddened to hear of his death. Please know I have your whole family in my thoughts. Addiction is a terrible monster.
Vaughan Dowie
I am so very sorry for your tragic loss.
Cathy Mussio
Jana and family …
Jana, although I have not met you personally, I am truly heartbroken for your loss. There are no words to express the incredible sadness of losing a son, grandson, brother, cousin and friend. My only comfort to offer is please know you are not alone in your pain. Mental health and addictions taken far too many. Thinking of all of you during this difficult time.
Jo Muise
Oh Jana and Howie, I am so deeply sorry for you losing your beautiful son. No words can have enough meaning. I am thinking of you both. Take good care of yourselves and love to you all. – Jo Muise and family
Trevor Burgess
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Sam sending all our love from Nova Scotia, Melissa, Trevor Burgess
Zoe Porlier
Sam was someone that could always bring a smile to my face and someone that would give me advice whenever I needed it. Sending my love and support to the family. ❤️
Eric and Darlene Manuel
so sorry to hear about your loss our condolence to you and the family
Zachary
Sam was a good friend and was always able to get me out of ruts when at school
Katelyn Iredale
Jana and family, I am so terribly sorry for your loss of your beautiful Samuel. You are all in my heart and prayers.
Heather
Our sincerest condolences, we have many wonderful memories of Sam playing hockey and soccer. We always enjoyed his sense of humor and were fortunate to play along side him in hockey tournaments and cool off in your pool after soccer. He was a bright, compassionate, and talented person who embraced life, sports, and family whole heartedly. We miss him dearly and hold onto all those beautiful memories we have, forever cherished ❤️. Heather, Isaac, Ethan, and Noel Giesen
Donna Laybolt
Thinking of all of Samuel’s family at this very sad time. Very sorry for your loss. He is finally at peace. Hugs
Jamie and Tammie Swan (Arnold)
Our deepest condolences are sent to you and your family Jana and Howie at this time of unimaginable loss. We pray you find peace and comfort in the love of your family and friends and your shared memories of your son. ❤️
Ron and Christine Bowser
So very sorry for your loss
Michelle Williams
So sorry to hear of your family’s huge loss. A special hug for you mom and dad from Nova Scotia.
Julie Petrie
Samuel you have touched more than you will unfortunately ever know. May you find your peace.
Jana Howie Kaija and Howie our heart breaks for your loss. We are all better to have known Samuel. Sending all our love