Donald Lee Smith, 90, of Oakley, died Wednesday, September 12, 2018, at the Logan County Hospital, in Oakley. He was born December 8, 1927, in Logan County, KS, to Earl and Edna (Holmes) Smith. Don grew up on a farm west of Monument KS. He graduated from Monument High School in 1945. He served in the United States Air Force, flying in the Korean Conflict. Don married Elaine Jennings on August 8, 1946, in Colby, KS and they recently celebrated 72 years of marriage. One child blessed this union, Robert "Bruce" Smith, who was born on April 2, 1955.
In June of 1960, Don and his brother Stan opened S&S Body Shop, in Oakley. Don was known region wide as the radiator repair specialist. He enjoyed jeeping, riding motorcycles and working on his #5 stock car. He also acquired his pilots license and purchased a plane with his brother Stan. Don was very well known and liked throughout the community- he was considered a bit of an ornery prankster at times. Don served on the VFW, E.M.S., Oakley City Council and the Oakley Fire Department for 31 years and was Fire Chief for part of that time. In addition, Don was a member, deacon and elder of the Oakley Christian Church
Don was preceded in death by his parents; son Robert "Bruce" Smith and brother-in-law Robert Randle.
He is survived by his wife Elaine; brother Stanley (Virginia) Smith, of Oakley; sister Phyllis Randle, of Wichita and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
Cremation was chosen. Family will receive friends on Sunday, September 16, from 2-4:30 p.m. at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley. Memorials are suggested to the Don Smith Memorial Fund, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67747. For condolences or information visit www.baalmannmortuary.com