SMIT, MARTIEN JOHN – (retired from the City of St. Catharines after 27 years of service) It is with profound sadness we share the passing of Martien on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at Niagara Health Marotta Family Hospital after a brave battle. Though he wasn’t ready to leave his loving wife and family, his body had done it all it could do. Peacefully, he was welcomed by the Lord and his parents with open arms, just before his 80th birthday. Beloved husband and best friend to Amelia for 42 years. Loving father to Cherie (Ed) Byrne, Filomena (Bud) Giles, Frank Albidone and Sam Albidone. Proud Opa to Courtney, Phillip (Alaena), Anthony, Jordan, Joshua, Liam and great grandfather to Makayla, Carter, Aubreigh, Hadleigh and Colson. Dear brother to Bert (Margaret) Smit, Rein (Alice) Smit and Frances (Hein) Walma. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and extended family members in Canada, Holland and Italy. Martien was a gifted and devoted handyman, known for his ability to fix anything set before him. He found great joy in the garden he lovingly tended with Amelia—both the vibrant flowers and the abundant vegetables—but it was his cherished koi pond that held a special place in his heart. Above all, his family remained his greatest priority, and he carried immense pride for each one of them. Visitors will be received on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Bocchinfuso Funeral Home 2 Regent Street, Thorold from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Saturday at Elm Street United Church 1 Elm Street, St. Catharines at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. If desired, donations to Hamilton Health Sciences Juravinski Cancer Centre and may be left along with online condolences at www.Bocchinfusofh.com

Our family extends our deepest gratitude to Dr. Mithula Tharmabala and the entire team at the Walker Family Cancer Centre for the gentle care, compassion, and dignity they showed Martien. Their kindness meant more to us than words can express.