Royal Canadian Air Force
Canadian Corps of Signals
Donna passed away peacefully surrounded by her family who were comforting her, holding her hands, and playing her favorite country music. Donna was wrapped in her beloved “O’s” blanket and had the symbol she adorned pinned to her chest; the Poppy. Donna was such an effective communicator and was never alone or in silence as she drew her last breath here on earth. Her Son Kyle comforted her even in death. Donna was born in Gander Newfoundland and Labrador and was proud of her Native Newfoundlander culture and family. Donna is and will always be mourned by her husband, Capt Greg Smit of Ottawa; her Sons Kyle, Sgt Joseph Smit and MCpl Curtis Smit; her daughter-in-laws, PO2 Mandy Smit and Ajia Tan; her parents “Bud” and Louise Hiscock; her brothers Wayne and Shawn Hiscock. Equally as important to Donna is her Canadian Armed Forces family past and present who are too numerous to name. Donna was also a grandmother and a very proud Nanny to Braydon; she has 5 nieces and nephews, Dylan, Devan, Jaden, Isabelle, and John. On her father’s side; Uncles Dick (Heather) Hiscock, Don (Theresa) Hiscock, Tom (Eileen) Hiscock, Gordon (Valerie) Hiscock, Scott (Doreen) Hiscock. Aunts Eileen (Ray) Wells and Valerie (Bonner) Pinsent. On her Mother’s side, Aunts Amy Smith, Irene (Barry) Young. Predeceased by; Aunt Edna and Grandparents Amelia and Edward Gardner and Annie and Gordon Hiscock. Donna was a mentor to so very many lady motorcycle riders and leaves behind dozens of dear friends with the Litas of Ottawa, she was so immensely proud to be among you all out on the road. Donna was known for attracting orphans from within the military, those that leadership and institution had forgotten, or was taking its time to do something or who needed help. She knew she could not always solve their issue or give them what they wanted or needed but in most cases, something could be done; and she was the one to finally do something. It was not just at work, this is who she is, someone who wants to help in whatever way she could. She made a difference to a great many people. CWO Donna Smit emulated what our CAF culture should strive to be, Canadians who have sons and daughters in the military would have wanted Donna advocating for their child. Donna’s family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the nurses, doctors, and surgeons at the Ottawa Civic Hospital for their excellent medical care and exceptional communication we received. Private services will take place at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Ave.) followed by inurnment in the National Military Cemetery of Canada. In Lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Boston Terrier Rescue Canada. https://www.bostonterrierrescuecanada.com/
I will find you Donna, no matter how long it takes!
Digital Guestbook
Carole and Gilles Delorme
WO John Beres
Thoughts and prayers going out to the family. You will be missed by many. Rest easy now, your tour is done.
Diane McCabe
I like to describe Donna as a beautiful little fire cracker. I did not know her as well as many of you but I do know that she was a very caring woman with many friends and who loved her family very very much. I remember meeting her and thinking to myself "wow this is one of the coolest women I have ever met!". Donna, you will truly be missed by so many and I am blessed to have had the chance to meet you.
MWO Wilson
A great loss to the CWO family and Canada.
Terry Murphy
Although I don't think we ever meet during my 34 years, I wish we had. It is always great to see a leader that has always looked after everyone, and even though some problems were to great to solve, I am sure she always tried and keep a close eye on them. Rest in Peace and when you get to Heaven tell Jimmy we always send our best first, to make it easier for us old Sgt Maj's that will follow, I will hoist a drink of Screech in your memory today.
Lt(N) Stephen Haughn, MMM, CD
From our first meeting at SOFHQ when you moved to Ottawa from Greenwood, I knew we'd get along famously! Two east coast MWO/CPO2s in a sea of NCR. We shared many laughs in those days as you would come over to the HQSM cubicle to chat and give me your perspective. Only a couple of years later, you relieved Tony and got the job yourself; the first female HQ Sgt Maj at SOFCOM. It was a pleasure knowing you Donna, RIP. Greg and boys, take care of yourselves and each other.
Terry Warner
I have followed this heartbreaking story since Donna's hospitalization was announced. Please accept my condolences at your loss.
Col Eric Charron
Dona's military family joins her own family in remembering the many people she touched. She will be missed.
Matt Muzzi
So sorry to hear of Donna's passing. My condolences to you Greg and the entire family. Her memory will live on through you.
Shannon Simpson
Our hearts go out to your family Wayne at such a senseless and tragic time. No words can ever express the deep sorrow that everyone Feels for everyone in your family. The many stories you have shared with us on childhood memories and the many get togethers, have given us a glimpse of what an amazing person Donna was and the legacy that is carried on by her wonderful and loving children and grandchildren. What a blessing to know she touched so many lives and the best of her flows through each and everyone of you.
Sending our condolences,
Your Suncor friends.
There are no words to express how sad we are ...
Donna will be missed by so many people, both in her personal and professional life.
Our deepest condolences to Greg, Kyle, and her family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times. Rest in peace Donna xo