Donald Smith, 63, of Leesville, La.

JULY5, 1953-MARCH18,2017

LEESVILLE, LA. >> A memorial and visitation was held for Donald “Smitty” Smith on Friday, March 24, 2017, at Jeane’s Funeral Service, 100 E. Union St., Leesville, La. 71446 from 9-9:45 a.m. with Father Kenneth Michiels officiating. Immediately followed by the burial procession to the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 3348 University Parkway, Leesville, La.

Don was born on July 5, 1953, to Wilford and Bar- bara Smith, and passed away on March 18, 2017, at the age of 63. He was a native of Oneida, N.Y. Don was a Vietnam veteran and retired at Fort Polk from the Army after 20 years of service. While serving, he worked as a helicopter mechanic and technical inspector for the Army. After military retirement, he continued supporting Army aviation as a contractor for another 20 years at Fort Polk. Don was an avid motorcyclist and a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA). He loved fishing and bowling, but being with his granddaughters brought him the most joy.

Don is preceded in death by his parents.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 41 years, Penelope “Penny” Smith.

Daughter: Tracy Owens and husband Robert Jr. of Scofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Brothers: Kenneth and Darlene Smith of Waco, Texas, David and Robin Smith of Oneida, N.Y., Douglas Smith and Kay of Clearwater, Fla., and Terrance Smith and Debbie of Waco, Texas.

Sister: Penny Hinson of Waco, Texas.

Granddaughters: Hope Lynn Owens and Paige Lynn Owens.

Words of comfort and encouragement for the family may be left at www. jeanesfs.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Don to: Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA LA6-1) 109 Will Drive, Leesville, La. 71446.