Donald F. Smith

Don was born in Cashmere, WA to Claire and Cecil Smith on March 7, 1925. Don was a lifelong Cashmere resident graduating from Cashmere High School in 1944. He enlisted in the Navy and was deployed prior to high school graduation. While he was in basic training and radio school, his mother accepted his diploma on his behalf. Don was aboard the Cony for 2 years but was released early and returned home in 1946. He recalls his ship being attacked, but thankfully the ship was unharmed. Don was very proud of his time there and was a WW2 veteran and member of the Cashmere American Legion for 78 years. After returning home, Don met his future wife Betty Bates at a dance for returning service men or the movie theater (depending on who was telling the story). Don and Betty married on August 17, 1947 residing in Cashmere. Don then worked for the Cashmere United States Postal Service, was a 36 year volunteer at the Cashmere Fire Department where he served as Assistant Fire Chief, and was a pear grower. In 1961, Don and Betty bought a pear orchard up Mission Creek where they lived for many years. Don was a very hard working man and loved to spend time with his family and their many friends. Don and Betty loved spending time at their cabin at Lake Wenatchee camping, snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, clamming and crabbing. They also had a boat over in Anacortes, and spent a lot of time up in the San Juan islands. In their later years, they traveled to Arizona each winter. Don and Betty were a great example to all who knew them for how to work hard and play harder. The legacy they have left us will last a lifetime. When the time came, Don knew he was ready to reunite with Betty in heaven. Don was preceded in death by his sisters and wife Betty. He is survived by children; Mike (Shirley) Smith of Cashmere and Donetta (Chuck) Fries of Cashmere and Martin (Patty) Smith of Desert Aire; Grandchildren Ryan Smith of Cashmere, Chris (Wendy) Fries of Spokane, Rob (Cindi) Fries of Ephrata, Jeff (Jillian) Smith of Cashmere, Tyler Smith of Lacey, and Megan (Branden) Smith-Belieu of Fort Johnson, Louisiana; as well as 12 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. Don's family would like to give a heartfelt thanks to Epledalen in Cashmere for the great care and to Confluence Health hospice care during his last months. A special thanks to Zoe for going the extra mile for our family. A Graveside service for Don will be held on Friday December 1, at 11:00 am at the Cashmere Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Cashmere Fire Department or the Cashmere American Legion.

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Donald F. Smith

March 7, 1925 - November 13, 2023