Donald Smith

Donald D."Don" Smith, 85, passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2006 in Topeka. He was born June 30, 1920 in Eskridge, the son of Arthur and Alta Blankenship-Smith. He grew up in Eskridge, where he attended country schools, and Eskridge High School. Don entered the army in 1942, and as a Sergeant, was assigned to a tank division in the European Theatre. After his tour of duty, Don married Winnie Rogers in Dover, a union of over 61 years. Don was a self employed businessman, enjoyed traveling, square dancing, and was a member of Shawnee Heights United Methodist Church. Don raised cattle in his retirement years with the help of his grandson. Surviving is his wife Winnie of the home; daughter, Linda (Larry) Hollis, Wichita, and sons: Robert (Darlene) Smith, and Mark Smith, both of Topeka, grandchildren: Chris Hollis, Amy Custenborder, Brooke Howell, and Brad Smith, and one great-grandchild, Parker Howell. One sister, Betty Clay of Topeka also survives. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Debra Smith.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 10, at Shawnee Heights United Methodist Church, Tecumseh, with burial to follow at Dover Cemetery, Dover. Mr. Smith will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Sunday, at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel, where the family will meet with friends from 5 to 7 pm that evening. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to Shawnee Heights United Methodist Church, 6020 SE 44th St., Tecumseh, KS 66542 or Midland Hospice Care, 200 SE Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66604.