CONDOLENCES
March 31, 2008: Now closed for entries. Thank you
Condolence messages posted
to the page will be added to
those at Rhodiechat and will be
presented to the Smith family in
form of a bound book.
LIVING HE WAS THE LAND AND DEAD, HIS SOUL SHALL BE HER SOUL.
Rudyard Kipling on the death of
Cecil John Rhodes, 1902.
MEMORIAL SERVICES
On Sunday we attended a memorial service for Ian Smith, organised by the Rhodesian Association of Perth. It was a beautiful service attended by about 1000 people in Kings Park. Rev Alan Perrie was the MC and three people made speeches about Mr Smith's early life, middle years and end times. Barry Court (brother of Charles and son of Sir Charles and wife of Margaret!) made a speech on behalf of Western Australians. A fly past was organised with the missing pilot formation (3 planes instead of 4) which was really awesome but to crown it all after that a plane came over flying a message. The crowd was very appreciative and we clapped as we watched the plane go past. It was a memorable occasion and an honour to pay our respects to a great man
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To Janet and the whole Smith family, our deepest sympathies on the loss of Ian. The passing of a great man who left his mark on history and all of us who called Rhodesia home. David & Lynne Cushworth. The sad news has just filtered through and our sincere condolences go out to the family.Ian Douglas Smith - in our past but always remembered. Sylvia Derrett & Family now living in the U.K. Mr Ian Smith with remain in our memories and hearts, he was a man of true integrity a rare jewel in this world. Our condolences from Penny and Alfie Klopper (ex Mashaba) End of an Era .. such sad news .. Carol Mommsen (nee Knocker) Ian Smith was a great person. His contribution towards a developed
Southern My Mother (Lynda Filer) was Ian Smith's secretary immediately before & after he left Parliament, and assisted with his memoires, amongst other things. Rob Filer Yes, sad news. He did so much for us all and our country. Beverly Colam Firstly my deepest and heart felt condolences to the passing on of the great man I. D. Smith. There are a lot of mixed feelings here amongst the people. But a few of the closets would have prefared him died here. And they are saying he was always right about Mugabe. Because Mugabe betrayed him, he never leaved to his word. He will be sadly missed. Tavatya Zhuwao In Memorium of “Ian Douglas Smith” A great man who did so much good for our be,oved country. Depest sympathy to all the family. He will be remembered forever. D Ruetsche (ex Byo) Our sincere condolences to a man that will never be forgotten by the 'Friend' family - may you rest in peace Ian. Thanks for being the wonderful person you were during your 'reign' as Prime Minister of Rhodesia. Peace be with you. Henry & Marianne Friend. I,m very sorry for the death of Mr Ian D Smith I know him personal as my boss I was working in the Army RAR please may you send my condolences to the Smith famly ones again dave thanks yours Isaac Gumbo As the works of his life attest, Ian Douglas Smith was a brave and honourable man. His passing truly marks the end of an era. Deepest condolences.Evan Davies, Virginia, USA A great man has died.All lovers of Western civilisation are poorer for Ian Smith’s passing.His many many achievements and his outlook were probably best summed up by the late Bill Deedes “…a fighter”. Dr Greg Spencer (U.K.) As a teenager in England in the 1970s, I always openly admired and supported Ian Smith and the Rhodesian stand against barbarism and athiestic communism. Although there was continual missinformation and propaganda against Ian Smith and Rhodesia, his integrity and greatness of spirit shone out of him, he symbolised all that is best in men. He showed a tough, steely and uncompromising determination, to defend our decent christian civilisation, against the chaos and terror of Nkomo, Mugabe and their fellow murderers. I have recently been fortunate enough to marry a Wonderful Rhodesian Lady, who's mother Jean worked closely with the prime ministers department and knew Ian Smith personally. We would both like to extend our deepest sympathy and regret at the passing of this very great and very good man, may God Bless and Keep Him Always. Paul and Susan Williams (nee Gibson) Ian Smith,a man amongst men,with the strength and love of a true Rhodesian for his country and it's people.Now he can at last rest in peace. Sincere condolences to all the members of his family. Clive, Emily and Mark Morton. Ian Smith was an inspiration to many many people - may he long be remembered in the hearts of Rhodesians. Mandy Watkins (nee Brenchley nee Insch) We had some very memorable times during the Rhodesian era which will be forever in our hearts. Sincere and heartfelt sympathies to all the family. Patrick & Linda Kelly (Perth, Australia) To the family of my Prime Minister: A true gentleman, our deepest sympathy to Jean, Robert and families. Irene and Geoff Gibbon To family and friends of Ian Douglas Smith. It was indeed extraordinary times we lived in during the Rhodesian Era. It was an honour to serve during these times. My deepest sympathy to family and friends of the Smith family. God Bless. Ian P. Campbell (Bulawayo) To his family and friends, our deepest condolences. ‘Great man’ is the thread running through many of these tributes – he was a great man indeed. A man of integrity, a quality forgotten in todays world. His worst fears are now a reality and the world still looks on with a ‘deafening silence’, but his dreams will be realised eventually. God Bless. Keith & Christine Heesom & family, UK. As it is with many men of vision; they are scorned in the short run but vindicated by the events of history. Nichols Jeff The Portugueses friends ex Rhodesian residents in the town of Bulawayo wants to express the sentiment of the lost of a greate Man Ian Dougas Smith to all the family our sincere filing, the World has lost a man that was a exemple to follow in our harts he will allways be rest in peace you have passe a way, but not death, you will allways be remembered.Manuel Oliveira da Silva.(Vilarinho) Our sincere condolences to the family of a great man. How proud we were that day, now so long ago, when we went home from work at lunch time and heard the announcement of UDI. In fact, so proud were my wife and I as a young newly wed couple that we named our first child born the following year, a daughter, Udi-ann. So many cherished memories of our years in that wonderful country called Rhodesia, no more today, but forever living on in our hearts. Our thanks to Ian and those who stood with him you for their courage and commitment. Brian and Ann (nee Potterton) Johnson (ex Ft Vic) I grew up in a family of loyal supporters of Ian Smith. We were all very saddened to hear of his death and have lasting memories of his courageous and principled leadership of our beautiful and once prosperous country. Joe Wallis and surviving family. Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our hero, Ian Smith . We would like to send our very sincere and heartfelt condolences to all his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all . Ian Smith was a true gentleman - a man we will never forget and have much to thank him for. He will always have a very special place in our hearts. He did so much for his beloved country and people at his own cost. Personally, we have many wonderful memories of this truly great man and are greatly honoured to have known him. He is at peace now - deservedly - and will be reunited with his beloved Janet. God has picked another very special rose for his garden. Once again, our very sincere sympathies. R.I.P. Isla and Duncan Parkes Sad to hear of the death of Ian Smith. He will remain in our memories. Our Condolences. Ian and Vicki Wheeler Our prayers are with you in the loss of a great man. Ian Smith
will be remembered for his courage, his conviction,his bravery,
and his commitment to liberty. May God bless his family and may
God vindicate his legacy. Rev. Dr. John H. Killian Dear Jean, To many of us, Ian Smith was a man of great integrity and honesty doing what he genuinely believed was in the best interests of all Rhodesians, I am very proud of having had the privilege to have worked both for and with him for a number of years. My sincere condolences and sympathy to all the family. Stewart Michael "True Rhodesians never Die....." Great man, great country, my one and only home. Both made me who I am today. Forever in my heart and soul. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Carol Skelton To all his family and friends my heart felt condolences. Rhodesians, pass on the values we learnt. Keep them alive in tribute to this great hero. May God bless you all. Arthur Maia Our deepest sympathies to the Smith family -- and to all Rhodesians. Brian & Maureen Hayes So very sad to hear of Mr Ian Smiths passing, he was a true Rhodesian hero and he will now meet his soldiers who fought so for our freedom all those years ago. I was but a child when Rhodesia became Zimbabwe, born in Bulawayo 1973, my childhood was amazing and full of life, freedom and fun, growing up in the bread basket of Africa has made me the strong woman and mother I am, if only it all could have lasted so that my children could experience what we had. How apt that he passed away so close to the “first” Rhodie, Cecil John Rhodes.Goodbye to a hero who will not be forgotten. DEBORAH LEE (nee WELBOURN) ~ SURREY, UK In memory of the Honorable Ian Douglas Smith, "We fought hard and we fought well, only because we had you at the helm" Eric Bowerman (ex Rhodie). A hero. Chris Harvey. My tribute to an honest, wise and courageous man. Domingos Nogueira always Rhodesian. Our deepest sympathies to his family. Ian Smith was a great man and very much admired by all. He will certainly live on in our memories and will always be part of our 'Rhodesian' heritage. The Liddle Family (ex Porte Valley) To the memory of a Great, Kind and Brave Man who gave his time and life unsparingly to Rhodesia. From Peter and Shirley Charlton. Brisbane, Australia My deepest condolences to all the family at this time. It is a very sad time for most of us Rhodesians because it feels like a passing of not only a very honest, straight talking man, but a man who understood Africa like no other honest African politician who tried to do the best for every Rhodesian at that time. Sadly Africa will never see another man like him again. Sir Ian, arise! May God Bless You and Keep You Always with All True Rhodesians. Patrick Sherry (UK) We were greatly saddened to hear of the passing of Ian Smith. What a great leader. He will be sadly missed. To his family – you are in our prayers and thoughts. Chris and Violet Bam (Bulawayo) now living in the United States. Our Prime Minister, The Honourable Ian Douglas Smith, will live
on in our hearts and minds as long as we and our children live.
A great man of vision, he was correct in saying there will be no
black rule for a 1000 years, there is no rule in Zimbabwe, there
are no rules, only dictatorship, that is not government. We lived through an such amazing era of development in our country and how proud we are to have been a part of what it was. What unique and special memories we treasure. Ian Smith handed over a real jewel to Mugabe: a blossoming, almost self sufficient economy, ripe for massive development once the restrictions of sanctions were removed. An opportunity which showed such promise, gave so much hope to so many, but lost to greed and corruption. And now the passing of the man who gave our country everything but who asked for nothing in return. A brave man, always. He will not be forgotten. Deepest sympathy to the family. Valerie and Kelvin "Bugs" Malcolm, UK What a man you must have been for I was a mere 4 years old when you gave up your Rhodesia, yet I know of you and what you stood for. My parents, grandparents, aunts and unlces spoke of you fondly, proudly and with deep respect, may you rest in peace until your loved ones are there to greet you again. This is not the end of an era for “Rhodesians will never die”. Rest in peace Mr Ian Smith, PM of Rhodesia. Frederiksen (UK) To Ian Smith's Family, Deepest Sympathy. What a courageous
and brave man. You were an inspiration to us all and I was proud to be lead by you. Karl Woodhead Our deepest condolences to the family at the loss of a truly great man. We respected and loved him dearly, even though we never knew him personally. One of the most honest politicians ever. His heart for, commitment and dedication to our country and her people, out weighed his own importance and we were always grateful to him for that. He will always hold a special place in our hearts and will be remembered fondly by our family. Joyce, Debby and Nicky Clarke Last Sunday we attended a Memorial for Ian Smith service at Kings
Park in Perth, Western Australia. Around 1,000 people were in attendance.
The service was well presented with Alan Perie presiding over the
service and exactly as the last post was struck a fly past in “missing
man” formation took place. It was a fitting tribute. You were the most honest and upstanding Prime Minister Rhodesia ever had, you stood your ground, you were FAIR but FIRM. I salute you. Dat Kung formerly of Gwelo. I was saddened by the passing of Ian Smith, a truly remarkable
man. We ask that you please accept our most heartfelt sorrow and our condolences as your loss is a loss to us all. May God bless you and keep you in his care this day and always. Alberto Aranda My sincere condolences to the family on the sad loss of a man of great integrity and great worth. My late husband Tony Churcher taught his sons at Chaplin School Gweru in the late 60's early 70's where we met Mr Ian Smith personally at a number of functions. He had such a marvellous personality and an absolute pleasure to speak to. God be with all the family. Lynn Neethling (ex Gweru & Byo) Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Tholet, Robert, family and close friieds on the passing of Mr. Ian Smith. Upright and True and a man if great perception. Loved by so many. We will not forget him. Maxie Harwood. U.K. Our heartfelt sympathy goes to Jean, Robert and their families on the loss of Ian Douglas. We thought he had vision and was a great man. We have happy memories of our many years in Rhodesia and of the folk nights spent with Clem and Jean and friends at the Beverley Rocks Motel. Ray and Lesley Griffin Sincere sympathies to the Smith family on the passing of Ian truly a great man. Treasured memories of Rhodesia. Diana Bolton (nee Hennessay) Sincere condolences to the remaining Smith family members. I was born in Bulawayo, lived and worked there from 1945 until early 1966, when I moved to Johannesburg. Since November 1986 I have been living in the USA but still follow what is happening in Rhodesia. It is sickening what Mugabe has done to that country. Sincerely, Les Kaplan My sincerest condolences to the Family of Ian Douglas Smith in the passing of a GREAT MAN and a GREAT LEADER. He inspired all Rhodesians. May he now Rest in Peace. Jan de Beer & Family My sincere condolences. Few leaders in this day and age are so honest, courageous, consistent, and trustworthy. Stan Patchet I was a "Friend of Rhodesia" during the
time Ian Smith was Prime Minister. We left our homeland in 1985 and as far as we are concerned, Ian Smith was the ONLY honest politician, statesman and a fine gentleman in history. Our sympathy to his family and friends. A man in a million. Kind regards The Mushett family, New Zealand A truly great man, and with his passing reinforces the words , Rhodesia, another time, another place..... Nicholas Bowden Ian Smith 1919-2007, I lived and fought for Rhodesia, to me Rhodesia
was you. Our sincere condolences to the Smith Family. Ian Smith was a great Man and Politician, actually one of the best. He was very much admired by true Rhodies and definately by myself and my family. May his memory live on forever.Rest in Peace Ian Smith, Pat and Maureen Harris. Australia (X Chiredzi) A great gentleman, he will be sadly missed and always remembered for the extra years he gave us in a wonderful land. Sleep well. Liz and Dennis Jordan My condolences to Mrs. Smith and family.Mr Ian Smith was a man who had the courage of his convictions and stood firm in spite of international pressure. He has left a legacy that will be remembered for many years to come. My father who served with him in the same political party during the Federation spoke of him as a man of integrity and a man of conviction. May the Lord be your comfort during this time of bereavement David J.Rendall Texas.USA. A man of integrity and with vision. Really sad about his passing. The end of an era, and the end of the country we once call our home.. Regards, Ms Jordan Dessington To Jean Tholet and Smith Family Our deepest sympathy on the loss of a Gentleman. Ian Smith helped build a country to be proud off. Mally and Agnes Duncan My condolences to the family. I was a baby when Ian Smith visited our farm in Kezi. I wish things were different today and that the country was the same as it was then. Rest in peace. Lorna Paterson (nee van Vuuren), Cape Town To the Smith family. Sincere and deep sympathy to you all on the loss of Ian, one of Africa's greatest leaders. Will always be remembered by Tom & Judy Sheard, King William's Town, South Africa. Ian Smith saved southern Africa from communism. Kobus du Toit I will always have many proud and happy memories of growing up in Rhodesia and I feel that Ian Smith had a huge part to play in the way that I look at life and the world today – a man of honour and integrity – he was always my hero. I will always remember him. Elaine Bushell ( nee Venter) We attended the Memorial Service for IDS in Cape Town, and I wish all the curmudgeonly editorial- and obituary-writers who had written such twisted and scurrilous things about him could have been there to witness the depth of the affection and respect for him. I would have like to ram their scribblings down their collective throats. The church was packed, standing-room only. His memory will live on in the minds of many, many ex-Rhodesians around the world. Our deep condolences to the family -- you, and we, have lost a great man. Mike and Ann Raath, Cape Town (ex Salisbury) Condolences to the family on the passing of a man among men! Not only will he be remembered as a great Politician and Leader, but as a humble man who always had time for his fellow beings. Your love and dedication to your ‘country’ and your people will be remembered. Val & Jane Evans (nee Flockhart, was Paull) Our deepest sympathy for the loss of a great leader “Ian Douglas Smith” A Man of Dignity , Strength and strong character. A leader of a wonderful country "OUR" beautiful Rhodesia - lost but not forgotten. Amelia Siegel - (The Poeira family - Umtali) An amazing Man, Country and Experience. I will not forget. Keith Casey (SA). To the family, We remember a great man with much respect and fondness. Sincere condolences to the family of a great man. Proud memories of the opportunities we had to meet Ian Smith, and of all that was Rhodesia. Nel family, New Zealand. Sir you were a man second to none. You are now with GOD and still keeping an eye on us. GOD save the hero. Alf, Bev Abby Herbst. Pretoria South Africa At the going down of the sun and in the morning after .We will remember him. Sheila and Malcolm Hair Sincere condolences to the family. How proud you must be of your father, what a great man he was. RIP Mr Ian Smith. At the going down of the sun … Stuart & June Ross Our condolences to the family of Ian Douglas Smith, undoubtedly one of the most honest politicians of our time. May he rest in peace and be joined together spiritually with his gentle wife Janet forever. Beryl & Ken Spark To all the Smith family and friends, Deepest condolences to you all on the loss f Ian - one of the most genuine people I have ever had the privilege to meet. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of sadness. Love and God bless you all. Maureen Merrifield ( nee Hobbs) Our love and thoughts to Jean and the family on the loss of such a wonderful man. A life time of memories. Chris and Trish Cant, Perth Western Australia (Ex Salisbury) What a Man, one of the all too few, true Statesmen! We give thanks to God for such a man and for his family who gave him the love and support he needed in whatever he set his hand to. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Ashington (nee McDiarmid) I met Mr Smith on a couple of occasions in the bush when he visited
the troops. I only had the opportunity to greet him and answer
one or two questions, like most of us in the ranks. He was a true
and sincere gentleman and a good leader and he has had my respect
for more than 40 years now. You will always be remembered. Sleep peacefully gentle man. (Debbie Buitendag nee Miller, ex Salisbury) My condolences to Janet and Family, your Father will be fondly remembered. Glen Goosen Gone but not forgotten, the best is now at rest. Under different circumstances yours should have been a State funeral and not a quiet passing, but you will always have a place in the history of what was a truly great country of plenty, that now no longer is. Rest in peace your work is done. Val Bennet Our very deepest sympathy to all the family on the loss of a wonderful
man. Our hero, who through your leadership, provided us with a
life in a countrythat was beyond compare. We remember you fondly
and treasure those precious memories. May you rest in peace now.
Chris & Linda (nee Brits) Thomson Fond memories of a really happy lifestyle that he tried so hard to preserve for all. Philip Green (Johannesburg) He was a man of integrity, let down by those who had none. May he now rest in peace. Mathew Tait We are Rhodesians who grew up in Rhodesia. Many of our friends lost their lives fighting for it. We made huge sacrifices for it. Though we are far away, we are still Rhodesians and always will be. It has become a special place for us and no one can take it away from us or join it. We were privileged to have met Ian Smith twice in recent times and the sight of him made us realise - we would do it all again. A special man who needs no words to describe him. He will always be a part of our lives and many others who remain - proudly Rhodesian. We have all lost a father. Condolences to the Smith family. Paul Burmeister & Sharon Elliott. Durban The Winds of Change have touched our lives again. Goodbye and God Bless you - IAN DOUGLAS SMITH and our COUNTRY and HOME - RHODESIA. You made us all proud to be RHODESIANS - you made us all into MEN amongst schoolboys. May you now R.I.P. Gail Beale (nee VAN BLERK) - BULAWAYO What an incredibly sad loss! Our heart felt condolences to the whole Smith Family. Although so many of us have left our beloved country and moved on, Rhodesia will always be our home - our hearts are always there. Thank you Mr Ian Smith, for fighting so hard to keep our country alive, you were a great man, a true leader and an inspiration to us all. And Thank you to alI the Rhodies out there that are striving to keep our heritage alive... I cant help feeling that the Rhodesians world-wide are going to rise together again - stonger than ever! God bless You!! Melanie Grigoratos and Buckley Nilsen and all the Grigoratos's from Bulawayo and Nilsen's from Salisbury Sad loss of a great man and leader – Willard & Val Bowker My deepest condelences. The man did his best for the country as a whole. Thanks. Erasmus Mujiwa. What a man. Deepest sympathy to the family. Ron and Lyn van Zyl.RSA Yes, sad news. He did so much for us all and our country. A country now very sad. Betsy Cowdy An honor to serve in the Rhodesian Forces under a gentleman such as Ian Douglas Smith, I salute you Sir. Thomas J Crook. It was an Honor to have served you. Our memories of you are cherished. You were a Great man, leading a Great Land, with Great people. Thank You, Roger Diss (ex Rusape) To The Smith Family - Our most sincere condolances at the loss of a man amongst men, who was respected even by his enemies. He was a man who's word was his bond. He did everything that was within his power to fulfill the promises he made and he will be remembered with love and appreciation by those who served him. May The Lord Jesus Christ bless, keep and protect you during this time of loss and sadness - Gavin and Jenny Rawstron ( now living in East London - South Africa) Our sincere sympathy to the family. We lived and worked under his guidance and admired and respected him as a great and sincere man. He was Rhodesia. God rest his soul. Sid and Shirley Robbins and family (ex Salisbury). To the friends and family of Ian Douglas Smith, our deepest condolences on the passing of a great man. He was our leader, our Commander in Chief and, through the gentle way he handled his Office, our friend. May he rest in the knowledge that he gave us the finest society, the finest environment in which to bring up our families, and an honourable and successful country, sadly betrayed by its friends in its most critical hour. In this, the time of Ian Smith's passing, perhaps his critics will now finally judge him less harshly, having seen the atrocities committed by his successors in power. And perhaps now, at this sad time, his followers will more than ever hold their heads up and say to the world "We were not wrong." Nick Matzukis Our sincere condolences to the family, we remember Ian smith with pride, what wonderful memories we have of Rhodesia. Rest in Peace Pat and David Adlam UK To the Smith family My deepest sympathy on the loss of Mr. I D Smith. The passing of my Prime Minister, Officer and Gentleman, I will miss you dearly. Willie Lindeque (1RLI) I have a deep sense of loss and that feeling that it really is "An end of an Era"!! Ian Smith was a Man among Men, a rare animal by today's standards - an Honest Politician who stood by what he knew was right. And in return we all stood behind him and many gave their all!! Condolences to the family, thanks for the most fantastic time of my life in Rhodesia, RIP - you were loved by us all. Under the right situation you would have earned a place at World's View next to Allen Wilson and his men!! From Ian Whitfield (and my late wife Sue) To Jean and her family and Elizabeth (widow of Ian Smith’s son Alec), Kjerstie, Inger and Tom-Eric – our deepest sympathies on the passing of a great man, father and grandfather. The news of his death brought deep sadness to so many of his admirers and followers. Thank you Ian Smith for all you did for Rhodesia and your dedication and strength in carrying out your beliefs, giving Rhodesia 15 additional years of good and prosperous living! If only the country’s situation could have been reversed in your life time, to it’s previous glory and the heights that you took it to! Fly high and rest in peace. Jill Wolfaardt. My condolences to Ian Smith’s family on the passing of a truly great man. He served in the RAF with my late father in law, Eldon Trollip, who was Secretary of Defence with him, so I got to know him fairly well through this family connection. I was in the BSAP, and it was an honour to serve under a person of integrity. I for one will never forget his courage and humility and, not least of all, his ability to remember everyone’s name, and treat them as equals. - Iain Laing (BSAP 1959 – 1982) As a nation, he showed us the way to honour, courage, and an everlasting pride in the calibre of a small number of people with huge hearts. He will be remembered with respect and admiration by all of our generation. Trish Parsons, ex Salisbury, Rhodesia. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We are so deeply saddened by Ian’s passing, he will remain forever in our hearts - what a great man, what a great leader. Laurence and Franca (nee Verdelli) Baker, Ireland. Rhodesia, a country of high morals. Rest in peace. Best regards, Graeme James McLoughlin Deepest sympathy to the Smith family on your loss of a truly wonderful
person and heartfelt sympathies to a Nation of people who believed
in him. Rest in Peace Ian Smith, you did well. Our deepest sympathy on your sad loss – it truly is the end of an era! My father, Theunis de Klerk, served as Member of Parliament for the Shabani area and was sadly killed in September 1977 just a few months before Independence. He was in an ambush whilst visiting farmers in the area and trying to convince them to stay on their farms. Strange how the world works as now these framers have all been forced off their properties! I still have Christmas Cards dating back to this time, signed by Ian and Janet and sentimental as I am – I will hold onto them. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Kind regards Betty de Klerk (wife of Theunis de Klerk) and children Lourens, Renee and Chris To Janet and Family, he will sadly missed by all who knew him. What a great life he gave us all, fond memories, which will always be in our hearts, of a once great country and a great leader. Esmare' and Ian Gethen (ex Salisbury and Rusape) now living in the UK Our heartfelt condolences to the family & friends on the passing
of Ian Douglas Smith. He was always a gentleman … right
to the end! You’ll be in our thoughts forever & we are
truly blessed to have had you share a valuable & important
part of our lives. Thank you for inspiring us to still believe
what a wonderful country Rhodesia was & will always be! Rest
in Peace! To the whole Smith family our hearts and prayers are with you
at this time of great loss, Ian Smith was a shining example to
many and he will forever be in our memories of Rhodesia, for our
family he will always be with us as my brother was named after
him. May Gods blessings be on you all Not too many families in this world can testify to having had
a gentleman amongst them who conducted himself with such honor
and righteousness. Few people can actually understand the principals
which not only drove Ian Douglas Smith, but also by which he constantly
lived his life. My deepest sympathy to all the family of Mr Ian Douglas Smith. May God bless you all in this time of sorrow. Mary Kleb - East London, SA [ex Bulawayo] Condolences to all the family. He was atruly great man who gave us the best years of our lives. Kevin and Mary Pring Welling, England I was a Smith man. Maybe we were wrong, maybe we were foolish but we acted in good faith. I have no regrets for trying. Rob Ryan A true and rare gentleman. A man not afraid to stand up for what he believed in. An end of an era. Hennie and Carole Uys (UK) In memory of a great man who thought of others before himself. Daphne McLoughlin A great man who strived to do his best for all of us. Our deepest sympathies to his family. The Mullenbachs, Pietermaritzburg. Fondly known as Smithy our great leader - fondly remembered as Ian Douglas Smith, one of the world's greatest statesmen. " He made it, they broke it ". Deryk McBain now living in the USA. Our condolences to the Smith and Tholet families. Ian Smith was my CO whilst I was in the RWS and I had the honour to meet him when I was in 2RAR. He was a man of integrity and honesty whom I was proud to serve. Ann Fairs and family. Whilst he was alive, there was always that little glimmer of hope that maybe one day, we could take our Rhodesia back, heal her wounds and return her to her former glory. Now he has gone, that is the end of a truly great era, but it is the end. Rest in piece Mr Smith, you were right and you did your duty. Terry Ivison. South Africa Sincere condolences to Janet & family, thinking of you at this sad time. Bronwen Hogan (nee Hosie, daughter of the late Frank & Joan Hosie Selukwe) Condolences to the family of a great man. You will never be forgotten. Hamba Kahle Shamwari. Sean Williams Botswana The Right Honourable ID Smith. Sincere condolences to the family. Ian Smith was a great man and he stood for what he believed in. My parents went to school with Ian and I was at Chaplin School in Gwelo with his sons and in fact, Alec (who I believe passed away) was in my class. This is definitely the end of an era. Regards Elaine Farquharson (nee Rademeyer) and husband Stuart Farquharson. (Alberton Gauteng South Africa) My sincere condolences. André Coetzee & Family When I got the news that Mr. Ian Smith had passed away,I cried.Through thick and thin,I always supported this great man.He has gone to join the lads who gave up their lives for our beautiful Rhodesia. Rhodesians never die.The memory lingers on. Rest in Peace. Jo Da Silva. To the family of our beloved Prime Minister of Rhodesia, Ian Douglas
Smith. Our heartfelt condolences on the loss of a great gentleman
and leader. His name will go down in history as a man that stood
by his word. We had the honour of meeting him at a Round Table
49 party in 1981, in Bulawayo, and he gave us such encouraging
words. We still have the pictures of that night. My certificate proving my membership of Rhodesia Pioneers Society takes pride of place on my wall even more so now that all the family farms around Chipinga have been stolen! A gem of a country now ruined. Smithy did his best to prevent the unfortunate inevitable ruin. I believe it will rise again. Deryck Eddy ex Bulawayo A wonderful man who was an example to us all . He gave us all
the best 15 years of our life,rest in peace prime minister, " well
done thou true and faithful servant,enter thou into the house of
the lord" To the Smith family – Deepest sympathy. Ian was a man of courage and conviction ..one of very few leaders who remained true to his beliefs. Alan & Ros Cumming My deepest sympathy to family and friends of the Smith family, truly a great Man,God Bless. Mark Mathews To the Family and Friends of Ian Smith: I am not a Rhodesian, so I hope you will forgive my impudence barging into a private remembrance, and in writing too much. I was born and raised in the USA. My countrymen helped (in a small way) build your country in the beginning and stood by (some might say accelerated) it’s fall. I can accept neither praise nor blame because I was, until just recently, blissfully unaware of everything Rhodesian. UDI took place when I was 7 years old. We were more concerned with our selves and Vietnam and Watergate and basically ignored Africa (except for an occasional, irrational, pause to excoriate South Africa and praise communist rebels in various countries) Ian Smith was a great man. He may have had frailties—he was human, after all—but he stood up to tremendous pressures and set an inspirational example for us all. I wish I could have had the honor to have met him. I wouldn't have anything important to say; but maybe some of his determination could have helped me become more resolute. The history of Rhodesia is a history of brave men and women sacrificing much for the success of others. That name has been dragged in the mud by some; but it cannot be sullied. The brave men and women whose blood, sweat, and tears (to paraphrase Mr. Churchill) built and defended your country have set the name above human efforts to stain. Ian Smith was surely as brave as Alan Wilson, and as surely surrounded and doomed by the enemies of freedom. His name will live on Rhodesia’s Honor Roll long after we pass on. With the greatest sympathy and respect, John Bailey My sincere condolences to the family. Ian Smith was a truely wonderful man. I met him three times and it was a great honor. I am very proud to have his signature on my army certificates. Best wishes. Rob Landau (RLI Trooper). To a great man who did his best for the Rhodesians. Will always be greatly respected. Dimitri & Lydia Grigoratos (ex Bulawayo) He will be remembered as an honest politician which is a rare commodity in this day and age, but also as someone with integrity and humility.Even if his policies were not always one's that I could support I will remember him with admiration. He was a great and courageous man. Gill von Seidel As third generation Rhodesians we share the pride which the late
Ian Douglas Smith demonstrated for a wonderful country. Lesley's
mother the late Pam Taylor, (nee Harland) was a fellow student
and friend of Ian at Rhodes University and later enjoyed many social
occasions with the Smoths in Salisbury. We will always be immensely
proud of the Rhodesia which our families helped to build, it was
the most progressive and socially evolutionary country, a true
jewel and the breadbasket of Africa. Rest in Peace Ian, a true
son of the Rhodesian Pioneers, we will never forget you. Our deepest
sympathy and sincere condolences go to his family and all his many
friends. Our sincere condolences to the Smith Family on the passing of a truly remarkable man. He made us proud to be Rhodesians. Trevor & Trish Kubie, UK Our condolences to the Smith Family and to all his friends: Mr Smith was a brave man and left a good legacy; we still proudly call ourselves Rhodesians and rightly so. No one can take away our memories of those times and they serve us well. We will remember. The Theron Family from Fort Vic What a real pity that IDS, because of the racist regime that runs
the ruins of Zimbabwe cannot also be interred near CJR at Matopos!
Now that would be a fitting resting place for the MAN. Blessings What a wonderful man, my dad had the honour of taking a lot of pictures of him when we lived in Bulawayo, a very close friend of the family ran the grounds at Government House (next door to Northlea High School) I swam in the pool at Government House, I have alot of lovely memories of the gardens too. But the most important thing that I have in my mind is talking to him on a Sunday afternoon and Mr Smith making me feel like I was the most important person in the world. Great Man, wonderful person and a man with integrity. Shall be sadly missed. Regards Netta Ewart We attended the Memorial Service in Cape Town, the Church was full, standing room only. It was small thing we did to pay tribute to a man who did great things. We will always be Rhodesians, not Ex Rhodesians and certainly not Zimbabweans. This is because Rhodesia was a Time, not a place, it was a Time that Ian Smith led us in creating and that Time can never be forgotten. Neither will Ian Smith. Go well, Mr Smith, and rest easy, your job on earth has been done, and done well. Marion Oosthuysen Born in Belgium, we, the Sweeck family, emigrated to Rhodesia, a decision I will always be grateful for to my parents. I will always think back to Rhodesia where I had some of the best moments in my life, and I will always regard myself as being more Rhodesian than Belgian. My heartfelt condolences to the Smith family. Eric Sweeck (Belgium) The deepest and sincerest condolences on the passing of Mr Ian Dougles Smith. It was an honour to meet the legendary Ian Smith in 1981 in Salisbury. In an age when sad shortcomings define politicians, his integrity and excellent personal qualities rise head and shoulders above others. May God rest his soul and may he be accorded honours and recognition for the qualities that set him apart. H H Breitenstein On behalf of my family. and the Rhodesian Light Infantry Regimental
Association, I offer our deep condolences to family of Ian Douglas
Smith. I was always amazed when meeting Mr Smith, wether at the Dog Shows or at the airport - he never forgot me -having meet my husband and I once, remembering our love of dogs and in particular 'our Bull Terriers' . My staff , all Zimbabweans, and all our family will always remember him for he was the true spirit of Rhodesia. Mark and Sue Impey ( ex Goromonzi) Cape Town, What a man, what a personality, my wife and I both met him,I had met him at the Police Hall at Hard Square a few times,it was such sad news to hear of his death. Many condolences to his family,his memory and his straight forwardness will stay with us always. Africa has lost a special man. Tony and Angela Walkden,Ex Hatfield It is so sad that a man, a true Rhodesian, had to pass away in a foreign country, because of political hatred. Yet, his memory will for always be fresh in the minds of those who also now live in foreign countries. V.Rupping ex Bulawayo. an Douglas Smith, we will miss you sir, I met you twice in Bulawayo and the seconed time you remembered my name I was so proud that a great statesman could remember me it was one of the greatest moments in my life, we loved you sir just as you loved us, Condolences to the family, God Bless Mr Rhodesia. From Colin Lockey Richard Lockey Karen Elliott (nee Lockey) And families Our Courageous Prime Mister is at peace..you fought the fight you stood shoulder to shoulder with your people .. No other leader would do what you have done for a nation...A true leader and Gentleman...Godbless you and your Family..RIP Rob and Liz Handyside My prayers go to Jean and Robert and their families, on the passing of their father. To us he was a father to so many, and a wonderful mentor. “Ian D Smith” will never mean anything other than “Loyalty” “Steadfastness” “Courage” “Tenacity” and “Perseverance”! We salute you, our Prime Minister, You`ve earned your rest! Regards, Steve and Colleen Lombard (Nee Went) ex Umtali. Ian Douglas Smith was and is my hero. I had the absolute privilege
of growing up in Rhodesia amongst the most wonderful people in
the world. I mourn the passing of a great statesman and the end
of an era, never to be recaptured. My condolences to his family
on the loss of an icon. I was so sad to hear of his passing – it brought back so many memories of the wonderful years my husband and I and our four children spent on a farm in Rhodesia. During this time we were members of the Rhodesian Front and we never missed an Annual Congress or a chance to listen to him speak. My husband obtained an autographed copy of his memoirs. Many of my family and friends wish to read or re-read it. Sincere condolences to his family. Norma Hemensley (Nambour, Australia). To the Smith Family Our sincerest condolences to the family, he will be a man that will be greatly missed by us all Rhodesians where ever we are in the world. He was a man we were proud to call our President. May God be with him and the ones that are left behind Bennie & Liz Bam Ian Smith a Rhodesian friend I never met but will forever be remembered. Steve Klimaytys (UK) Mr. Ian D. Smith was a true statesman, a gentleman, had a good sense of humor and was always straight forward. Never will I forget our conversations and how he made me feel welcome in his home. Thank you for making Rhodesia what it was. May you rest in peace. Condolences to the family. Mr. Marc V. Sweeck He was a man who stood out amongst men. The world is a much emptier place without him. There has only been two special men close to my heart who by their passing has left me deeply saddened. They were both great men who stood out and gave their all to Gods Own Country Rhodesia - My brother Paul & The Prime Minister Ian Douglas Smith. May God keep you both until we meet. Rhodesians Never Die - They just go Home.. God bless Dave Rouse Our Deepest sympathy and condolences to the Smith family. Rhodesia, [Sit Nomine Digna ] our emblem "May she be worthy of the name". She has and always will be ...Rhodesia to us. Rest in peace Ian Douglas Smith and thank! Tom and Carolyn De Bruyn With deepest sympathy to all the family on the passing of Mr Ian Smith - so many thousands of us spread all over the world but all Rhodesians at heart. He was the truest Rhodesian of us all. Rest in Peace - Mike & Barbie Norman (nee Elcombe) Maleny, Queensland To the Smith family - our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time - may you find the comfort you need - thanks to Ian for making the country I was born in and lived in til I was 16 years old (and left this year finally aged 42 years) - it will remain my home forever - I now live in Toowoomba (Australia) but my heart remains in Zimbabwe and Africa - best wishes - Clare Davies and Dez Kok. To the Smith family: Ian Smith afforded us all an opportunity to grow-up in an incredible country with incredible people. Now, the world-over you will always find friendly Rhodies/Zimbos of all colours. Thank-you & God bless. Louis Korb offer my condolences to the Smith family on the passing of this great man. A man of principle with a vision encompassing a better life for all his beloved Rhodesians of every colour and who stood firm in his resolve not to compromise on standards or give in to the pressures of appeasement which - as he so rightly predicted - would unleash forces of greed, power lust and exploitation on a scale unprecedented in that Country. A Great man finally at peace and upon whom History will ultimately pass vindication. Mike Scott May he now Rest in Peace. A man of his time; true and committed.
My condolences to the family. The family of The Honorable Ian Douglas Smith, If only the world knew what a brave, sincere, honest and committed man he was, we were privileged as Rhodesians to have him as our leader. I was honored to meet him a few years ago when he was 83 yrs old and he was still the dignified gentlemen as we all knew him. My sincere sympathy. Mandy Williams (ex Salisbury) It was with great sadness that we – Portuguese people that left Mozambique in 1975 and lived in Rhodesia - learnt of your father's passing. As a journalist I hoped that one day I could meet him here in South Africa and have a great interview done to a great man, but I'm thankful that at least I spoke to him various times over the telephone in Salisbury when I was an operator for the GPO. He was a great man and I am grateful and Rhodesia for having accepted me and my family in troubled times in our homeland: Mozambique. Dario Bettencourt
A tribute to a wonderful man who came from the same area as I did (Selukwe). May you rest in peace. Kim Budke A great country and a dedicated leader. RIP Mr. Smith. Strength to Jean and the whole family. Mike & Barbara Westcott. Cape Town. An Honourable Man and an honourable life – may you rest in peace. We are the better for having known you. Martin, & Vanessa Byrne & family (Australia) So many people say that they have principles ... but if you don't
like those, they have others! 'Bye Smithie - we loved you lots.......... Ian Smith was a man who never compromised his values and lead by example. He never deserted his followers and remained in his beloved Rhodesia to the very end. He deserves to rest at Worlds view next to the man who had a dream which became Rhodesia. Ian Smith, we salute you and will never forget what you stood for. Honour and civilisation. Rest in peace. Owen & Elaine Shaw, Durban A strong man who will be sadly missed by ex Rhodesians. A man I have admired since before UDI and still do. Sandra W Thank you Monsieur Ian SMITH for xhat you did for Rhodesia and the Rhodesians.May you rest in peace. Richard BOYER, a french rhodie He was and still is all we held dear for our country RHODESIA,
a very big man among men.. An honourable man who will be remembered with respect long after the MacMillans and Wilsons of his era are forgotten. Bruce Coventry – S.Africa Smithy was part of our life's experience; we cannot escape it, we are everywhere, we are a part of history. Condolences to his family with regards/thanks Chris Russell Our very deepest sympathy to all of the family on the greatest man Rhodesia was so proud to have had, we salute you may your soul rest in peace. Kevin and Sandra Kroukamp Ex Que Que. I know of no current leaders past or present in Africa who could, even if it was possible who would walk up and stand next to an ordinary person at a cricket game and say "how are you young man" as if he were just another person in the crowd. I doubt if Ian Smith ever new my name but on the few occasions we met from days at Plumtree School as a boy, thru the days of the war and beyond he always made me feel like he knew me personally. He was for many black or white, a true gentleman and it was an honour to have met him. I pass my deepest sympathies to his remaining family. Ian Smallbones UK My deepest condolences to the Smith family. In 1983 I had the
profound honor of being able to perform my stand up comedy routine
for Prime minister Smith and his lovely wife Janet when they attended
the Rhodesian Veterans Association convention in Lake Tahoe California.
It was an honor to be able to meet and shake hands with the father
of independent Rhodesia. I'll never forget that night. May his
journey to the halls of his ancestors be swift and filled with
joy! Sincerely A true leader and a man of vision. It is like losing a dear and close relative. Mine and my families sincerest condolences Ian, Carol, Jason & Larysa Graves Heartfelt condolences to the family of a true Hero. It was an honour to have served my time & country in the bush war under Mr. Smith's leadership. Rhodesia will ALWAYS be "Rhodesia". Chris Erasmus (Canada) Alas He is gone whose greatness was spurned by many Tom Ealy A great man and a sad day for us as Rhodesia fades into the distance. May his death somehow keep the memories of a lovely country alive. Nick and Carol Beale Melbourne To all the Smith family. A great man who will always be remembered, from the times when I was a kid in Gwelo and we used to go fishing at Gwennora Dam, and Mr Smith caught us once on his property and just stood by us and wished us good fishing. That day I will never forget. Always remembered and we will follow you again, always Rhodesian. (ex Sapper.) Milton Griffin (Australia) to whom it may concern i do do not idly go to war put my life my body on what ever line there is yes i could be forced into being in an army but as a simple man with simple tastes if i had to do it over again the one man who i would have done it willingly for has now passed on .if ever i percieve an honest man with as just cause i could invest my son but sad to say they broke the mold with old smithy andre (greasy) van eyssen My son Murray, now 28, remarked on what an honour it was to shake hands with Mr Smith. Helping with the book launch in Pretoria and meeting Mr Smith was one of the highlights of my life. His integrity and understanding, care and kindness shone through and gave comfort to so many. Cynthia West My deepest sympathy to the family. I'm saddened by the passing of a wonderful man who took a country and, without the help of the world, made it a self-sufficient nation that anyone would be proud to call home. Thank you for the privilege of being able to live there and experience the beauty of the country and her people. Edwina Hanley, Canada Ian Smith, a true Rhodesian hero to the end. Condolences to the Smith family. Gary Huxham – South Africa You are my hero. I wish to convey my wife and my deepest condolences and sadness to Mr Smiths family, and not least to my fellow Rhodesians, at the loss of the greatest man I have had the honour to meet. Rhodesia is now finally extinct. Mr Smith, I have personally heard many people in this country say you were right all along.Thank you for leading us. We will always love you. Pieter and Gina van der Linde (U K) Deepest sympathy to the entire smith family. You will forever
be in our hearts and the memories of I was brought up in Salisbury Rhodesia, it was and always will hold my heart. My deepest condelences to the entire smith family. Mr ian smith did so much for Rhodesia, made it a great country . how it must have broke his heart to see what has happened there. We are all sad to see your passing but the memory of you and all you did will forever be in our minds and hearts. Mrs Eve Burton Kent England. Thank you Mr. Smith Our condolences to the Smith Family on your great loss. We will always remember our hero “Ian Smith”. Ryken family (Utti, Debbie (nee dePaauw), Kirk & Shawn), Eve dePaauw, Gary dePaauw and family. Dallas, Texas, USA Condolences to the Smith Family, he was our hero, we proudly had the car sticker "You are behind me I am behind Ian Smith" we are now sitting across the world in the UK, where 30 years ago we would have said that we would put the lights out in Bulawayo Instead here we are safe and well, while he has had to endure so much pain, for the country he gave his life to. kindest regards. Arthur and Petal Moutrey.Bedfordshire, UK. I have only fond memories of growing up in Rhodesia and I owe many of them to you, Mr Smith, without whom, I dare say, I would not be remembering such a beautiful, bountiful country. I remember you with fondest affection and gratitude. Michael Robert Gordon To Family and Friends of Ian Smith, Our deepest sympathies to you all on the passing of a man of great integrity, great vision, love of his land and its people.The unity of Rhodesians continues and we salute him. Heather, Barbara, Patrick and Eddie Young When I was young at school we had the old imperial mats outside
each classroom with O H M S on them we always claimed that it meant
Our Hero Mr Smith, And he was my only hero ever. The greatest Rhodie
ever, My deepest condolences to his Family, we will all miss you
Thank you thank you thank you Mr Smith you were there for us and
Rhodesia, you never stopped you never gave up. We look up to you
and wish we could be like you. Amazing person and we loved you
dearly. A great man, greatly admired by many including myself. You will always be remembered by those who lived in Rhodesia our beloved country. My condolences to his family. Ann Bailey Our most sincerest condolences to the Smith family. We will always remember Ian Smith for the way he fought for our beloved Rhodesia. Kindest regards Jeff and Cheryl Carstens A great man. Back at the time of the the Universal Declaration of Independance I was a young man in the U.K. and displayed a sticker on the back window of my little Triumph Herald that said "Support Rhodesia". Not exactly a politically correct statement to make in 1960's Britain. I worked in the shipping industry at that time and parked by car in Southampton docks and returned to find a bunch of left wing dockers attempting to overturn the car. My resolve to support "Smithie" at that time was only make stronger by their actions. When I look at Zimbabwe today and see what has become of that poor country it only confirms that Ian was right at the time and my Government were totally wrong and should have supported our "kith and kin". Let us hope that soon there will be a change of regime in Zimbabwe and that prosperity returns to the country and its peoples of all races. Rob Golding, Randburg. A great man has left us to be with Janet. I was Mr. Smith's Government photographer for 20 years, and I knew him and his family very well. He also came to Air Force Association meetings. A very easy man to talk to.Neither Mr. Smith or Rhodesia will ever be forgotten. Alan Allen With deepest sympathy. Wes and Anne Tyson Once in a thousand years there comes along a man whom has the courage,grit and determination to take on the world for what he believed was right That man was Ian Smith,a gentleman and great leader.It was an honour and privilège to have been part of that wonderful country Rhodesia. Heartfelt codolences to Jean, Robert and family from Des Long Clagget Munjoma Peter Scales I will always remember him as the gentleman he was, I still hear his voice when he visited our regiment, my sincere condolences to his family. Charles Miriel (RLI)
I grew up in Rhodesia, and I thank Ian Smith for his courage to stand against the world. I had a wonderful childhood, in the best place in the world to have grown up, and I look at my children now, and wish that they too could have been priviledged enough to have experienced life in Rhodesia. Goodbye Mr Smith, you honoured what you believed in right up to the end. Condolences to the family. Lynn Kidd - Durban South Africa I meet Ian three times once in Rhodesia & twice in London The photo I have of him myself & two other ex members of the RLI still takes pride of place above my desk 729536 Cpl Harland G S 1 RLI Gordon S Harland God finally has his finest servant in his presence – Trevor Mann (JHB - South Africa) The end of an era. A great man who was an honest & true leader. We will never forget. Danny & Anthea Spurrier To My Honourable Leader, It was my priveledge to serve in the security forces under your determined leadership, I treasure the memories that you helped to create and shape. Yours was a life that others can only dream of, you were our servant as no other can be. May you rest in peace, may your contribution to this world forever be remembered and may you walk with God for eternity. I salute you. (Warrant Officer Class 1 – Alec Edward Mann) My late father was Leslie Shaw, the Chiropractor at 188 Rhodes Avenue, and I had the opportunity to meet Ian Douglas Smith on several occasions when he came in for an adjustment, often walking up from Parliament House. He will always be remembered as one of the world finest gentleman who stood up for what he believed in. I have his autograph in my book, opposite Sir Roy Welensky's and these I will treasure for ever. To the Smith family, Ian Douglas Smith will be forever remembered as a true inspiration by standing up for what you believed in. The world needs more people of principle. Gary Shaw (Australia) To the Family and all good friends of Ian Douglas Smith, my deepest Condolences for the loss of a great man, I was shocked to hear the bad news. Ex Rhodesian /RLI - Adam Pietens, Roosendaal, The Netherlands Mr. Smith, you were undoubtedly the world’s greatest statesman. I am proud to be a Rhodesian because you made me so. Your memory and your greatness will live on forever. The world has lost a wonderful person, but Heaven has gained a new special angel. Sincerest condolences to Mr. Smith’s family. Patricia Horner Seghaier, Las Vegas, NV, USA. It was a very sad day when our great and beloved leader, Ian Douglas Smith passed away. He was a courageous man of principle, who stood up to the liberal British governments that wanted to wash their hands of their colony to radical communists. The Rhodesia he fought for, has now become the Zimbabwe ruin under Mugabe. Like Churchill, a statue of Ian Smith should be erected in Whitehall, to remind the British government of how they betrayed their Rhodesian kith and kin. Ian Douglas Smith, we salute you and will never forget you until the day we die ! Derek Hutton One of Rhodesians worldwide My deepest condolences to the family of Ian Smith, and to all
Rhodies world-wide for whom his We wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ian Douglas Smith. He was a man of great stature and integrity and his passing away has left the world a poorer place. We all lived in South Africa in the 60’s and 70’s and fully supported the vision that IDS had for Rhodesia; for all its peoples. He will not be forgotten. Simon Millar Tim Millar Bob and Pauline Malden Dear Family: Thank you for helping give us such a wonderful life and childhood. Through the tough times and the good you were always a gentleman in both senses of the word. Yes we fought for our beloved country and in our hearts we won... I would do it all again. Take the journey to your final resting place... you deserve it. Cheers Mate. Jeremy Watson {now in Australia} To the family of Ian Smith please accept our condolences, he was
probably one of the greatest leaders of modern times, courageous,
honest and integrity, only to be betrayed by his “friends” With my deepest sympathy. Gerard Parmentier To the family and friends of Ian Douglas Smith, Mr. Smith will be hardly missed by everybody, who like him denied hypocrisy of the world and showed strong decision making character of a real man! May you soul rest in peace. Marta and Boris Klvana, Czech Republic. In fondest memory of the greatest parliamentarian in my lifetime. A true statesman and defender of freedom, decency and civilisation, his counsel as my mentor has shaped the manner in which I have viewed the world since 1965. He was and is my superlative hero of all time. We met only twice but I believe that kindred spirits need only meet but once to achieve an eternal respect. We shall not see his like again and we are all the poorer for this loss to humanity. Martin Warne To the memory of the greatest parliamentarian of my lifetime and a superlative hero. His counsel shaped the way I have looked at the world and mankind since I was eight years old. Privileged to meet him on a few occasions, I know we shall not see the like of such a champion of freedom, decency and civilisation again. The truest gloriosa superba of all time. We are all honoured to have known him and so much richer for his life and works. Martin Warne A True man of Greatness. James Melvin Ex Bulawayo now Tucson Arizona U.S.A Our sincere condolences to the Family on the passing of a truly great Gentleman. May you rest in peace. Janet, Allan & Meghan Baker, Perth, Australia To the family of Ian Smith please accept our condolences, he was
probably one of the greatest leaders of modern times, courageous,
honest and integrity, only to be betrayed by his “friends” My condolences to the family of Ian Douglas Smith. He was a truly great man. What a sad day when I heard the news that day in November, just days after the anniversary of UDI. He will always be remembered. Best regards, Lyn Bell (ex Bulawayo) It is a tragedy when an honest man dies. Richard Wm Short Ottawa -- Canada I apologise for the delay in sending this - due to power problems
anf the fact that I have no access to internet, I have been unable
to get my message through and was sent your address. Is it too
late to add our condolences to the book? Due to our circumstances
I am unable to say what is in my heart but would appreciate it
if you could pass this message on, if it is not too late.
I joined the Rhodesian Front Party in 1969 when working as a young ships engineer based in NZ. Later I found my way over to South Africa and up by rail to Rhodesia to Salisbury and the barracks of the RLI. After basic training I was placed with support commando and served in that company from 1971 until 1974. My respect over that period of time was with my company commander and with our prime minister. It was an honour to be known as one of Ian Smiths 'boys'. My respect for Ian Smith continued throughout the years after the handover. To remain on his farm and continue through the hardships that have fallen on his country shows the great fortitude that stayed with him until the end. RIP Ian Smith. Kind Regards Rod Hale Deepest sympathy to the Smith family on the sad passing of a truly great man, who will live forever in the heart of all Rhodesians. Des and Renette Albasini, Johannesburg South Africa To one of the greatest men I have had the pleasure of meeting. Rest in Peace. 730130 Cpl Nicholas Skipworth-Michell 1st Battalion Rhodesian Light Infantry John Edmond said it best in one of his Troopiesongs, The last
word in Rhodesian is Ian, and this doesn't only apply to him being
the last Rhodesian leader, it also applies to his ethics and morals,
he was the greatest of us all ..... and anyone with Rhodesia in
their hearts cannot help but be lessened by the passing of the
Spirit and guiding light of our once great nation. My condolences
to Jean in the first instance, and to all of the Rhodies who the
Rt Hon Ian Douglas Smith ever touched. My sincere condolences to the Smith Family, Such a Mountain of a Man that was sold down so many paths. Such a pity Rhodesia has no OIL !!! M. Brydon Under your leadership we fought to prevent what is happening in
Zimbabwe right now. A Great Man, I only wish that British Politicians were half as
honest. May you rest in peace. A man too honest to have been a politician. Tony Sheffield Johannesburg I will always be a Proud Rhodesian, and I will always remember Ian Smith for being the Proudest of us all. RIP Great Man, it was not for nothing. Graham Patterson - Perth A truly INCREDIBLE human being!! Ian Smith makes me so proud to
be a Rhodesian! His values,ethics,and behaviour are a fine example
to anyone who truly believes in humanity! I have lived under numerous Prime Ministers in the UK , RSA ,
NZ , AUS , and for the past 29 years Canada but I can honestly
say the only man I have a long standing respect for is Ian Smith
, a political giant amongstpygmies , a man who walked the talk
, the only man I regret not having met Deepest Sympathy to the Smith family - what a great man and an inspiration to all of us, he left us with great memories, may Smithy rest in peace. Marje Nell (Norton) To a true leader of a nation that looked after all it’s people who unfortunalely I never got to shake his hand but was privileged to serve him in the bush war. An outstanding gentleman whom I’ll never forget.Sincere condolences to the Smith family. Tony Atkinson. Redcliff. We were so saddened to hear of the death of our beloved Ian. A truly great man and human being. If it were possible we would stand by you again and our fellow Rhodesians. Our sincere condolences to the Smith family. Eric & Rene (nee Willemse) Birrell. Ex BSAP. I was born at the Donaldson Nursing Home in 1940. My Dad was Inspector in Charge of the BSAP Selukwe. He knew Ian Smith’s family, and whilst not always in agreement with Ian’s politics my Dad held the Smith family in high regard. My business career spanned 1965 – yes, I witnessed UDI, to the mid 1970’s. During this period I was influenced by Ian and for the better. Hopefully he has gone to face a happier challenge. Gerry Lawrence Because of you Ian Douglas Smith Rhodesia will never die Mr Ian Smith ,the father of our Nation , was such a splendid person. I met him once, by chance, at the airport and rushed over to greet him. He did not know me but you would have thought that he did. He was warm, polite anda true gentleman. He genuinely loved all his Rhodesian family. May He rest in Peace. Lindsay Holden I am a Nyasalander who became a Rhodesian,and, now a Queenslander, wish to send my heartfelt sympathy to the family of one of the greatest politicians that the world has known.I admired Ian Douglas Smith from his early political days in the sixties, his iron steadfastness in the face of foolish foreign propaganda, and his espousal of "Meritocracy" - Democracy based upon merit. Had that policy been allowed to progress, by what was a liberal and unthinking international community, we would have seen, today, a thriving and successful nation in which all men were equal, and in which the rule of law prevailed. Instead, we have Mugabe's Zimbabwe. The Tyrant will fall, and his name will be lost to history. The name of Ian Douglas Smith, my leader, will live forever. Go in Peace, Prime Minister! Geof Acton, Queensland No words may express the great sorrow on the passing of a great Rhodesian.Who could forget that day on the 11/11/1965 at 13h15, when he was full of flu and made his Unilateral Declaration of Independence speach. So very sorry. Andrew and Irene Roussot and family (South Africa) It is a great man that can stand tall even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Such a man was our leader, Ian Douglas Smith. Sol Menashe USA Rhodesia, there was no place like it. We were proud to go to war and fight for our freedom. We loved our leader, we sat on every word he spoke; we believed in him and gladly followed him. To our Honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Ian Smith, thank you for giving us courage and a hope. We hail you as one of the great world leaders of our generation. All of our condolences to the Smith family; you can be proud to own such a great name and such a great heritage. God bless you, Neil and Noline (nee Wakefield) Rhodes (USA) A rare man of integrity & honesty. A true statesman & leader who will be remembered. Arthur Adams In memory of Ian Smith - a white man who did more for black people than Zimbabwe's present rulers could concieve of. Ann Curry (nee Knight-Bruce). A great statesman and Man.I met him as a child and will always
remember that as he was a true leader and true Rhodesian.He fought
to save the jewel of Africa, but politics intervened.I am always
proud to be a Rhodesian by birth Rest in peace because you were
right and because you fought the good fight with all your might
. With his passing it felt as if it is now the end of the era of
Rhodesia. While Mr Smith sat in power, the country as a whole had a great and prospores futer for rhodesians old and futer generations.my condolenses to the smith family. S. Rainey o easy to be critical with hindsight! Ian Smith was a most honourable man. Read Jill Baker's "Beloved African" about her father, the great African educator , and you will see that there was no solution to the political question of a universal franchise. Should the vote have been given to the entire Rhodesian population in 1890, in 1930, or in 1965? ............Condolences to Jean, Rob and the extended family........Pete Winhall, Cape Town Rhodesians will miss this man Ian Douglas Smith, so few of his stature and integrity can be found in this world today, certainly not in the political arena. Inevitable as death is, it comes to all men, what a tremendous legacy he has left behind. I had a number of opportunities to chat with him as he walked his dog along the roads of Alex Park in the late 90's, he always had time to stop and chat - no body guards, no fear, his door was always open. I was serving in the BSAP when he announced UDI, and have been an ardent admirer and respecter ever since. He truly was a man in a million, I have read all of the previous messages, and can only agree with their sentiments. Together with my wife Astrid we pray for his family at this time. We may be living in Scotland now but our hearts are buried in Rhodesia. Thank you for our rich inheritance. Derek & Astrid Gobbett A great man who's love for the country and its people was passionate. We shall always have a place for him in our hearts . How he loved to watch us all play rugby at police grounds on many occassions. My sincere condolences to the family .His memories will live on forever. From The Andre Buitendag & Family ( Concession) I am an ex Rhodesian now living in Australia who had the privilege of living for twenty odd years in Rhodesia first under Roy Welensky and subsequently Ian Smith. Both were men of great moral stature who in a scantling of time made that country,in my opinion ( and I have travelled the world ) the best I have seen. This was due entirety to these two great men and with thousands of others I will honour their passing Tony Shapley My condolences to Ian Smith’s family on the passing of a
truly great man. Kevin O’Connor We met our Prime Minister and were always impressed by his integrity and truthfulness. What a loss to the world and to his family. Condolences to all. From Tony and Felicity Lee in Australia. The end of a fabulous era, my condolences to the family. Doran Sewell (nee Westhead) now living in Canada Our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Ian Douglas and the father of Rhodesia. Around the world the amazing commradery of Rhodesians will never die, as will our memories of one of the greatest leaders to set foot on African soil. You will be welcomed by many shamwari's Mr Smith including my own, may peace be with you. Sean McKinney, Riddells Creek, Australia. I have never been to Rhodesia, but I feel a kinship with it and
its people. Southern American people, enduring similar travail,
have a great respect for honor...some say because that is all they
have left. Over thirty-one years ago, I named my firstborn son,
Ian, after Prime Minister Smith....in his honor and with great
respect. I wish I could have had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Smith,
in person. He was an honorable man...a character trait sorely lacking
in today's world. Farewell my friend. You fought the good fight.
Your honor is upheld. What more could a man do? We will remember
you. Ian Douglas Smith-a truely fine gentleman. Thanks to him for all he tried to do for our beloved Country. We will always remember him with the utmost respect. Chris and Sandra Szechenyi To all the family. Thank you so much for the wonderful years that you gave us under your guidance at & during Independence! You lived a wonderful life & gave so much of yourself to other Rhodesians. Go in peace knowing that you gave of your best for so many both in war & peace. Much love from a very proud Rhodesian family. The Pretorius Clan ex Harare Not always proud to be a Rhodesian, Ian Douglas Smith, changed some of that for me. He was one of few who encouraged me to pride in Rhodesia. Never rude and uncouth. Not foul mouthed and vile, he encouraged strength. He was one of the few politicians, who was not in politics for himself, but for the country. Though betrayed, he stood erect. Upright in character and principle. Admirable! Betrayed by allies, he advanced still. Betrayed by 'his own countryman' who loved TV and coffee more than country, he endured beyond the best. Betrayed by 'double standard politicians' within the House, he persevered for the rights of all. While many would be driven to bitterness, he rose above it. Disappointed, yes! There were too many odds against us. Not so much those that were external, but those we should have held dear within ourselves: A love of country, but with little appreciation for our vulnerability through a lack of humility [because of]; our overall lack of love for God, and a humble dependence upon Him. Ian Douglas Smith, an extremely sad and heartrending loss will be fondly remembered with great admiration for a fine example of what a man can be. Ivan Vivian Poulter A dignified man, may be long be remembered in the hearts of all. Allan & Colleen Meredith (ex Bulawayo) Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the Honourable Ian Douglas Smith, as well as to our fellow Rhodesians. Hamba gashle our Prime Minister. Jac Joubert and Family in Bulawayo and Leone Joubert and Family in Calgary, Canada Our condolences to the family of the late Ian Douglas Smith. With
admiration for a man of his word. I left Rhodesia in the 80 , I spent a lot of time in the Army (RLI) 8 RR ,my brother was killed in the op area, I saw Ian Smith a lot those years, he was a real man who looked the world right in the eye , he stood till the end. Condolence Cliff Argent No words could describe just how good a man and leader of a nation Ian Smith was. He will live in our hearts forever.Our condolences to his family. Sue & John Beringer, Audrey & John Wigzell. Ian Douglas Smith, a gentleman and one of the few honest politicians
the world has known. He was a courageous man, who knew, understood
and loved Africa and Africans as no one else did. |
