Donald Walker Smith, age 75, died Thursday at Mariner Health of Methuen, MA.
He was born in Burlington, VT and attended elementary schools in Milton, Bristol and Middlebury, VT graduating from Middlebury High School. After high school he entered a naval aviation-training program at Hampden-Sydney College and Duke University. He graduated from the University of Vermont where he was manager of the University ski team.
While attending the University of Vermont, Mr. Smith enlisted in the Vermont National Guard (43rd Infantry Division) which was called to active duty. He served in the army of occupation in Germany during the Korean War.
He worked for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a service representative and salesman for eight years. Mr. Smith went to work for Western Electric in No. Andover, MA in 1960 and rose to the rank of Senior Engineer in nearly 30 years with the company. He retired from AT & T in 1989. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, Merrimack Valley Chapter 78.
Mr. Smith was a member of the First Church, Congregational, and Methuen, MA. He served the church as Trustee, Deacon, church cabinet member and Cabinet Chairman, Treasurer, and Collector. He was a member of the Couples Club where he was President and Treasurer.
He was a member and Past Master of the Cochichewick Lodge AF & AM in North Andover, MA and a member of the John Hancock Lodge AF & AM, in Methuen, MA and the High Twelve Club and the Ashler Club.
Mr. Smith was active for nearly 30 years in the Boy Scouts of America serving at various times as Scoutmaster, assistant Scoutmaster, District Chairman for the Menomack District of the North Essex Council, Council Chairman for Activities, Chairman of the Council Jamboree Committee and council executive board member. He was a Vigil Honor holder and member of the Order of the Arrow, BSA and was awarded the Silver Beaver for service to youth.
Survivors include:Wife of 49 years Lorraine (Bradley) Smith of Methuen, MA
Sons: David W. and his wife Susan E. Smith of Gilford, NH Gary W. and Vanessa M. Smith of Rocky Mount, NC Craig B. and his wife Ann E. Smith of Methuen, MA
Daughters: Karen L. and her husband David Call of Upper Marlboro, MD Rebecca E. Smith of Acton, MA
8 grandchildren, 1 great-grandson, 1 niece and 1 nephew
A funeral service will be held Monday at 11 AM at the First Church Congregational, Methuen, MA. Burial will be held at a later date in Weybridge, VT.
Calling hours will be Sunday from 3-5 & 7-9 AM at the Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St., Salem, NH. Masonic Services will be held Sunday evening at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to:First Church Congregational Organ Restoration Fund26 Pleasant St.Methuen, MA 01844