William J. Smith
January 22, 1924 - April 3, 2011
Obituary
~William’s Story~
William Joseph Smith Bill was born on January 22, 1924, in Huntingtom, Long Island, New York. Growing up, Bill attended a Catholic school and completed missionary school, prior to joining the United States Army Air Forces. While in the service, Bill participated in WWII, including D-day bombing missions. He was Given the Distinguished Flying Cross and an Air Medal with three clusters.
Bill landed at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he received a degree in Engineering, There he found his first love, Delores and made her his wife. They had four beautiful children, John, Robert, Donald and Stephanie. The family moved to Washington State and set up a home for themselves. The family enjoyed camping and were active in Boy Scouts and Blue birds. Bill and Delores were also members of a square dancing group. Delores passed away in 1970. Bill worked as an Engineer for Boeing Aero-Space Company until his retirement.
In 1971, Bill married his second wife, Lucille Egeland, who had five children; Deanna, Stacy, Grant, Tom and Randy. The new family continued to reside in the house Bill had built in Auburn, Washington. Bill and Lucille were able to see the blessing of nine grandchildren; Danny, Jennifer, Dawn, Joey, Casey, Jessica, Ben, Rachel, Kelsey. They also saw the addition of five great grandchildren; Sanoe, Allie Nicole, Gavin, Landon, Waiannuhe. Two more great grandchildren are on the way.
Bill was able to enjoy what he loved best; outdoor camping, hiking, fishing, boating and much more. He loved to travel by car, train and motor home to see his ‘beautiful country’. His wife and kids, and most of the grandchildren were able to experience these joys with him. Through the years, everyone that shared time with Bill could absorb the talents and knowledge he shared through stories, usually told while you were pruning trees, weeding the garden or riding the lawn mower. Perhaps he was teaching you to fix a car, or you were picking food for a meal from the vegetable and fruit garden Bill and Lucille had together. Bill also liked his quiet time in the garage with his tools and projects. Often his nose was in a Book.
Bill’s parents, and unfortunately; his brother Joseph, all from Long Island, preceded him in death. Bill will be missed and is loved for eternity. Taking his final breath on Sunday, April 3, 2011 in his Auburn home, he had his family at his side.
