THE life of a much-loved and well-respected Worcester man, who was at home on the golf course and running city pubs, was celebrated in style after he fought a long and brave battle against cancer
David 'Chick' Smith lived up to his motto - 'finish high and see it fly' - after losing his courageous battle against cancer on September 30 at Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester.
More than a hundred close friends and family attended the celebration of his life, held in lieu of a funeral in accordance with his wishes, at Worcester Golf and Country Club on Saturday between 11.30am and 2pm. It was a day described as both 'beautiful and challenging' by those close family and friends who attended to pay their respects.
The 82-year-old of Lower Wick in Worcester ran several city pubs including The Bell, the Maple Leaf and The Coppertops and was also known for his passion for golf, where he was known as 'the best putter in the golf club'. He also ran the White Steamer party boats.
A spokesperson for his family delivered a tribute to Mr Smith, described as 'a fighter' and 'larger than life character' who continued playing golf four or five times a week even after his diagnosis.
He was also known for his work helping to coach juniors at the club and putting his distinctive horse head logo on anything he sent in the post. He battled cancer twice and was diagnosed a second time three and a half years ago, playing his last game in July.
'Chick' had 11 holes in one over his lifetime, the last one scored when he was aged 81, proof that he never lost his touch.
A spokesperson on behalf of his family said at the celebration: "He was a man who lived a life full of stories, played a lot of golf, and had the cleanest beer pipes Worcester ever did see.
"For almost five decades, he graced the fairways of this golf course with his presence, and it is fitting that we're here to honour him at the place he loved so dearly.
"Golf was not just a game to him; it was a canvas on which he painted the tapestry of his life, one swing at a time.
"He wore many different hats during his time (as I can attest from the 47 baseball caps I found in the back of his car).
"Some of you will know him from his early days at Berrows news, and some will know him from his later years at Royal Mail, but perhaps most of you will know him as one of Worcester's leading pub landlords, respected and much loved, from the 70s to the 2000s.
"The Beehive to the Bell, The Coppertops to the Maple Leaf, and who can forget the fun times onboard the White Steamer party boats the ‘Severn Traveller’ and the ‘Pride of the Midlands’.
"He brought people together, creating memories, and shared in the joys of life's celebrations. But more than his work, he was known and respected. A name that everyone recognized.
"It seemed like there wasn’t a day in Worcester when we could walk anywhere without him bumping into someone who knew him, and a friendly chat would follow.
"He lived by a simple yet profound philosophy, not just in golf but in life, 'Finish high and see it fly.'
"He understood that life's true essence lies in savouring every moment, giving your all, and then watching your efforts soar.
"He showed us all in the last few years that even a terminal diagnosis couldn't keep him off the golf course. Despite the odds, he fought and emerged victorious for so long.
"His enduring optimism, unwavering resilience, and the unrelenting desire to still be the best putter in the club were truly remarkable. a friend and inspiration to all, let's remember his life, not with tears of sorrow, but with smiles that reflect the love and joy he brought into our lives. Let's cherish the memories and continue to live by his enduring wisdom, 'Finish high and see it fly.'"
His family and close friends have also thanked everyone who joined Chick's celebration of life on Saturday, and to those who sent their condolences but couldn't attend.
"It was a fitting tribute to see so many friends and family on a day that was both challenging and beautiful. There were moments of tears, but mostly, there was laughter as we shared wonderful stories about him," the family said.
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