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
CWO Martin Colbert
Alex Rideout
To Greg, Kyle and all the other family members and friends of Donna, it is with a heavy heart that I wish to express my most sincere condolences. I was extremely fortunate to have met and worked with Donna through serving in the military and can only imagine how difficult this trying time must be for everybody. I hope you can find solace in appreciating the time you had with her and how much you all loved each other. Keep strong and reach out to your large circle of family and friends for support during this very difficult time.
Mike Miller
Always tragic to lose a member of our family and corp. I met Donna only a few times, but her strength and commitment to the CAF was very evident. A strong leader from a strong military family, I offer you all me sincere condolences for your untimely loss. RIP
Capt RGM (Ron) Lund and Sgt SK (Sherri) Lund
Donna was a caring person and a great leader. It is surreal to think that she is gone since she was so vibrant and outgoing. My wife and I were lucky enough to cross paths with Donna while working at MPGG. She always had the interests of others and took care of those around her, including my wife (Sherri). Sherri and I were talking about our interactions with Donna...and I recalled a time when she made some comments about my new beard...and lucky for me, she had just 'attempted' to dye her hair 'greyish'...well it turned out looking more blue than grey. When I called her 'Smurfette'...she sorted me out with a swift smack to the arm....and a good laugh! She was an old soul with a great sense of humour also; but don't get me wrong, when she had to 'sort out a situation/or someone' she was all 'CHIEF'! Sherri and I are better people for knowing Donna. She will definitely be missed! To Donna's family, Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss! She will make Heaven a better place as she made Canada a better place.
David and Sue Caird
Our deepest sympathy to Greg and family during this difficult time. Although we only knew Donna for a short time she was definitely “good people” with a true zest for life. She will be missed
Sherry Duplessis
You were an awesome leader, Soldier andyou SO loved your family! You were there for those going through tough times, you were so caring! Next time I hear thunder, I will think of you, driving up there on your bike! Love to your family and friends, I send love, strength and thank you very much for sharing her! ❤
Les Ferris
To the family, my deepest condolences.
Donna had such a big heart and never failed to take time for the little guy. May she rest in peace.
Sarah Lindsay
I only knew CWO Smit professionally. Donna was a woman of presence and power, a natural leader. My sincerest condolences to her family and friends, I cannot imagine what you are going through at this time.
Paul Ringuette
I have fond memories of Donna. She was an awesome inspiration for others and a wonderful leader and her contribution to the CAF and the ATIS family was enormous. My thoughts are with all her family and friends. She will be thoroughly missed!
Jennifer Nam
My deepest condolences to Greg and the family. I worked with Donna for the past two years at MPGG HQ. She was a consummate professional; dedicated, hard-working and with an outgoing and infectious personality that people gravitated towards. In my two years working with her, she epitomized what a CWO in the CAF should be - loyal, caring, compassionate and respectful - always willing to take the time to talk and to more importantly to listen. She will be missed.
I had the honoured to have Donna as one of my CWOs at CMP. She was very dedicated. She will be missed.