Donald R Smith
March 2, 1939 - September 14, 2021
Obituary
Chief Master Sergeant Donald R. Smith, retired, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2021, at the age of 82. Don was the third child born to Vernon and Gertrude Smith on March 2, 1939 in Bellingham, Washington. Don graduated from Bellingham High School in 1957 and went on to receive his nursing degree in 1964, where he was a medical surgical nurse at St. Luke's Hospital in Bellingham, WA. Don married Linda L Brehmer in 1963 in Bellingham, WA. After Linda passed away in 2006 after 43 years of marriage, he met Donna Hubert, who became his life companion. Don and Donna enjoyed attending local fairs and bazaars collecting glassware and figurines together. They also square danced, as he did with Linda. He was a wonderful square dance caller and was requested at many dances around the Pacific Northwest. He and Donna enjoyed traveling with Freedom Tours NW. They saw much of the United States with the friends they met on the buses. Every Tuesday night, his daughter, Denise, could be found having dinner with them, always prepared by Chef Don Smith. Don was also a master gardener and enjoyed showing off his beautiful flowers to all. Don joined the Washington Air National Guard in November 1959. He entered military training in February 1960. He then entered the Air Technician Exempted Civil Service Program in November 1971. In 1974 he was recommended by letter for promotion to the grade of Senior Master Sergeant. He served in the capacity of Alternate Unit Detachment Commander during his periods of absence from the family. He converted to full time Active-Duty Reserve Military in 1981. He received many awards and commendations during his years of service. He retired from the Air National Guard in 1996 after seeing much of the world. Besides his parents, and siblings, Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife Linda L. Smith in 2006, daughter Debra R. Bridges in 2011, and great-granddaughter Lanisa Mitchell in 2001. Surviving are his 2 children: Denise K. Wagner, her sons Kenneth, (Tammy) and Derek; Gregory G. Smith, wife Shelby, their daughter Ashley, and Debra's 4 children: Dawn, Nicole, Timothy, and Jaycob. As well as 7 great grandchildren. All family and friends are welcome to attend services at Tahoma National Cemetery on October 29, 2021, beginning at 1:00 pm. There will be a reception with refreshments following at the American Legion Post 15 Memorial Hall 25405 97th Pl S, Kent WA 98030. Condolence may be made to www.bonneywatson.com As Don dearly loved his dog, Sarah Sue, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Tacoma, or your local humane society.
Dad,
My heart is broken that you are gone. I am grateful for every moment we have had together and will always think of you as my Superman who can accomplish anything, knows everything, and forever quick with a joke, and your wit.
Hug Mom, Debbie and Steve for me. I’ll see you all when I get there.
Love you,
Goose