Obituary of Eugene V. Smith

Gene passed away Feb. 2, 2010 in Tacoma, WA. He was born Oct. 9, 1928 in Ft. Rice, N.D. to Michael and Margaret Smith, where he grew up on a farm and joined the Navy. He enjoyed playing poker at the Eagle's Lodge and was a member of Carpenter's Local #470. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Barbara; children, Warren Smith (Martha), Conrad Smith, Anna Stahl (John), Eugene Smith Jr. (Judy); 9 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter. Viewing 10:00 am with Rosary 10:30 am and Funeral Mass at 11:00 am on Friday Feb. 5, 2010 at Holy Cross Catholic Church. www.pipermorleymellingerfh.com "Eulogy for Gene Smith" The Smith family would like to thank you all for coming here today to share in a very special celebration of Gene's life. Gene was born October 9th, 1928 to Michael and Margaret Smith in Fort Rice, North Dakota. He was the 8th child of a large, loving family of 5 brothers and 5 sisters. They were all born and raised on a farm in North Dakota. Gene spoke often of his life on the farm. He and his siblings had many chores that started early and lasted all day. His mom and sisters cooked, cleaned and cared for the younger ones while his dad and all the brothers worked on the farm. They looked forward to getting together at the end of the day to share a meal, funny stories and laughter. The gift of gab, a sense of humor and loving to laugh is a Smith family trait to this day. As a young man Gene's devotion to his country led him to serve in the United States Navy during the Korean War. After serving in the Navy, Gene moved to the Pacific Northwest where he met his loving wife of 55 years, Barbara Ann. They had 4 children, Warren, Conrad, Anna and Eugene. His young family enjoyed almost the same life he did as a boy, except they lived in the city. Barbara stayed home, cooked, cleaned and cared for the children while Gene worked as a carpenter. He was a hardworking journeyman and enjoyed the camaraderie of Local 470 for 45 years. One of his kids always had a spot on Gene's shoulders as he watched TV. When he got tired of sitting, he'd get on his hands and knees, the children would climb on his back and he would romp around the living room acting like their "big horsy." Every day his kids and many neighborhood kids would wait for Gene to come home from work with his pickup truck. He'd slow down and whoever was waiting would jump on the running boards. He'd back-up and park in the driveway, always looking and making sure everyone was safe. Wow! He was a cool dad and everyone loved him! Gene and his brothers, Lawrence and August, spent many hours talking on the phone. If their kids tried to call home and the line was busy, they would call the brothers to see if one of their lines was busy also. Then they would know they weren't getting through to home for quite awhile. Their North Dakota accents would ratchet up about 10 notches and no one could understand what they were saying. They truly had their own language. Gene loved his faith, going to Mass and saying the Rosary. He also volunteered to set-up for Mass at St. Joseph's Hospital. After Mass, Gene enjoyed breakfast with family and friends at Vic's Restaurant. One of his favorite adventures was going to North Dakota in Uncle Frank's motor home with family. They would pool their money and Gene was in charge of the funds. He enjoyed that job so much. He called himself the "money guy." Later in life, Gene was afflicted with dementia that he battled for several years. During the last years of his life, his family found the best care available. They're very grateful for the loving care he received during his time at two adult family homes. The family would like to especially thank Jackie and Cory Wells, Zilfa and Don Coats for making Gene, or Grandpa as they called him, a part of their families. We also want to thank Linda Bowen, Palliative Care Nurse and Manor Care Nursing Home. Gene's type of dementia robs a person of their memories and personalities. However, Gene was not the norm. Even during his last weeks, he could still crack a smile and let you know that he loved you with his eyes. He is at peace now and you've got to know there is one big party going on in heaven. He is with his brothers Lawrence and August, the rest of his family, and of course the Lord. Thanks again for being here today. He loved you all and was happy to have you be part of his life.