On March 17, 2023, the world lost the most beautiful, kind and gentle soul, Preston DeSmit. This was an immeasurable loss to his family, coworkers and friends.

Preston was born in Lethbridge on April 7, 2005. He was a grade 12 student at Chinook High School and scheduled to graduate this June. He had recently begun an electrical apprenticeship with Platinum Power Corp and was looking forward to being one of the youngest journeyman electricians in the city. He enjoyed working and learning new things at his job and was proud of getting his driver’s license and driving the truck he had recently bought. Following graduation Preston had his dream trip to Japan planned.

When Preston was younger, he played hockey and has always enjoyed playing his xbox, computer and VR games. He liked going to the mountains where he would drive ATVs and enjoy the quiet natural beauty of the area. When visiting family in Ontario, he enjoyed spending time kayaking and paddle boarding or playing cards with his Babcia.

He is survived by his parents, Julie (Scott) Lane of Lethbridge, Dallas (Susan) DeSmit of Lethbridge, his brother Dax DeSmit (Dustin) of Edmonton, his stepsister Ashley Lane of Calgary, his stepsister Madison of Lethbridge, his Babcia Lydia Pragnell of Port Colborne, Ont, his Grandfather Melvin (Tamara) Pragnell of Welland, Ontario, his Uncle Steven (Stefanie) Pragnell of Niagara Falls, Ontario. His Grandmother Cecelia DeSmit of Fort Macleod, his Uncles Carlos (Ang) DeSmit of Fort St. John BC, Raymond (Mona) DeSmit of Spruce Grove AB, Darcy (Michelle) DeSmit of Lethbridge AB, his Grandparents Ian and Clasina, Uncles Mike (Kathy), Rob (Lily) and Aunt Marj (Kevin); step grandparents Ian (Marci) Lane of Lethbridge. As well as many other cousins and extended family members.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 am, on Friday, March 24, 2023, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610, 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta.     

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations go to any mental health charity of their choice, or the GoFundMe account “in honour of Preston”. The donations will be directed towards the most needed recreation items for the Wellness Centre at Chinook High School, where they provide a safe and inviting place for teens to relax in, as this space was so very important to Preston. A portion of these proceeds may also be used to support other child mental health initiatives in the community as well.