Carl Dean 'Smitty' Smith

Carl Dean "Smitty" Smith was bom on May 21, 1935, in Galena, Mo., to Oscar and Irma (Jenkins) Smith. He was the oldest of three children. During his youth he had been raised in Texas and Idaho. He worked odd jobs as a horseback Guide in Sun Valley, Idaho and competed in several rodeos through the years. However, his greatest passion was serving his country in the U.S. Navy. He signed on his 17th birthday and spent the next 20 years serving. During his years serving he met various people, including movie stars from the 50s and 60s and traveled all over the world. He fought in Korea and nine tours in Vietnam. He was the last survivor of his combat group (John and Whitie, I'm on my way.) Six marriages and eight children later, he found his soul mate Karin. Two more children and his family was completed. Volunteering and patriotism were what made Smitty who he was. He passed this onto his children. He made many contributions to organizations in Moses Lake and Grant County. He received many medals for his action in combat and beyond. He is survived by his wife Karin, his brother Carroll (Jackie), sister Donna (Tosh), children - Charlene, Carlene Carl Jr.(Maria), Charles, Ronnie, Kimberly(Corey) and Michael(Stacy), 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, many dear friends - and especially Ernie. He was preceded in death by father and mother, son Steven and niece Tabitha, special friends John and Whitie and Kristen.

A celebration of Smitty's life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008, at Benson's Funeral Chapel, 104 W. 5th Ave., Moses Lake, and continuing afterward at the American Legion Post.