Donald E. Smith

Donald E. Smith, age, 73, of Toledo, died May 25, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 15, 1949, in Toledo to the late Mack and Beverly (LaGasse) Smith and graduated from Macomber High School in 1967. Don proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He retired from Buckeye Cable System as Construction Manager after more than 36 years of employment.

In his free time, Don was a ham radio operator using the call letters WD8DYW. He was one of the local founders of Sky Warn and participated in Short-Wave Santa, allowing hospitalized children to talk to Santa via ham radio during the Christmas season. He also enjoyed spending time on Facebook, discussing politics, studying scripture and travel, especially cruising with his wife. Don found his greatest joy in sharing time with his grandchildren, including taking them on fishing trips that never landed a fish. He was a man of conviction and strength, direct and to the point; you always knew where you stood with Don. He will be remembered for his deep love of God, his family, and the United States of America.

Surviving is his beloved wife of nearly 51 years, Patricia; children, Dawn (Jamie) Aurand and Michael (Terra) Smith; dear grandchildren, Christopher, Piper, and Caitlyn; siblings, David (Becky) Smith, Diane Smith (Spencer), and Dennis (Annie) Smith. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Debbie Long.

Family and friends are invited to visit from 3-7 p.m., Thursday, June 1, 2023, in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, where a scripture service and sharing of memories will take place at 7:00 p.m. Don’s funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 2, 2023, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 5856 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo. Committal rites, military honors by the United States Navy, and burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Toledo.

Contributions in Don’s name, in lieu of flowers, are suggested to Tunnels 2 Towers Foundation, an organization providing mortgage free homes to Gold Star Families, fallen first responders, and injured veterans.