Inside King's-Edgehill School
Join Mr. Kevin Lakes as he catches up with KES Alumnus Travis Smithers '03. in the latest edition of Connect, Converse, Catch-Up!
Travis Smithers '03 is keeping people dry.
When my wife Penny and I needed a new roof on a property, I called Travis for his expertise and reliability. His business, Ridge Cap Roofing, is thriving in the Halifax/Dartmouth region; however, Travis did a big favour for his former coach and teacher by coming to the Annapolis Valley this past weekend to apply a metal roof. Astonishingly, he did the job single-handedly with his typical energy, enthusiasm, and easy laugh. “I work seven days a week,” said Travis. “I ease up in the winter doing some inside work and plowing snow, but this time of year it’s full on,” added the father of five children.
Travis has great support from his wife Janine, who takes care of the family when Travis is working and assists with the business, which is in high demand. “We have more work than we can possibly do,” says Travis, not stopping, as he drives in another metal sheet. “It’s hard to get help, but I do like the work,” he added. Travis has had the opportunity to work inside with family businesses; however, for now he prefers the physical challenges and rewards of his own venture.
Sadly, it was a tragic circumstance that re-connected Travis and me last spring. Travis’ brother, Christopher Smithers ‘04, passed away and I reached out to the family, along with Reverend Curry, to have a memorial service at our Hensley Memorial Chapel. This provided an opportunity to honour Chris and share memories of his accomplishments. “It’s been very tough,” said Travis. “I try not to think too much about it and keep working,”.
Travis has built a very successful business channeling the “Smithers’ energy” into construction, making homes sturdy, and protecting them from the elements. His work also has kept his own family supported through a challenging time. It was a delight to climb onto the roof with him and see him in action; honestly, I wasn’t much help, I simply watched the pro ply his trade.
Kevin Lakes
Junior School Faculty
Junior School Athletics Coordinator
Thanks for taking the time to catch-up, Travis!
