05/06/2026
One week ago, a memorial celebration was held in Kingston for Maurice Smith, Pathfinder's first captain. His family, friends, former shipmates, former sea cadets, and 7 former brigantine captains were in attendance. Below is Maurice's obituary.
Maurice Smith, 30 March 1939 - 25 April 2026
Maurice D. Smith of Kingston, Ontario passed away peacefully in the middle watch of April 25th, 2026. Born in 1939 in Northern Ontario, he was much loved by his spouse of fifty years, Ruth, his two sons Romney and Tarragon, and their families, as well as by a wide circle of friends. A long-time resident of Kingston, Ontario, Maurice was known to many for his energy, drive, and joie-de-vivre.
In 1979 he became founding director and curator of Kingston institution the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, which he built up from inception and guided for the following 25 years, until his retirement in 2004.
In 1962-63 he oversaw the building of the STV Pathfinder, in Kingston shipyards, for the newly founded Toronto Brigantine youth organization. He subsequently acted as Pathfinder’s captain, as well as in administrative roles, until 1978. He had a memorable and formative influence on many young men and women, some from troubled backgrounds, who served in Pathfinder.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tall Ship Expeditions Canada or Great Lakes Museum in memory of Maurice. Online condolences may be made at www.gftompkinscentral.ca
