SMITHSON. John (known as Michael) of The Strand, Topsham died peacefully on Sunday 13th June 2010 aged 76 following a long illness. Beloved husband of Diana, father of John, Paul, Catharine and David, and grandpa to Rachael, James and Dan. A proud expatriate Yorkshireman and Oxford graduate, Michael retired from the European Division of ICI to Devon in 1991. Here he embraced a variety of roles with energy and enthusiasm in the Topsham Community Association and Film Society, the Parish of the Holy Cross and the Catenian Association. A lover of fine food, wine, music and poetry, a skilful pianist, an accomplished yachtsman, and a devoted owner of a succession of Breton spaniels. Michael will be deeply missed by his family and a wide circle of friends throughout the UK and beyond. A Requiem Mass will be held at the Church of the Holy Cross, Topsham at 11.30 a.m. on Tuesday 22nd June. Family flowers only please; donations may be sent to Hospiscare Exeter and RNLI, with thanks.