John E. Smith. 79

Memorial services for John E. Smith, 79, of Sidney, Mont., were held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 1, 2006, at the Fulkerson Memorial Chapel in Sidney with Pastor David Huskamp officiating.

Honorary casket bearers are all of John's many friends and family. Military Honors are provided by the VFW Post No. 4099, Sidney. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Fulkerson Funeral Home of Sidney.

John was born on Nov. 15, 1927, in Marion, Kan., one of eight children of George and Laura (Byerly) Smith. He grew up and attended school in Priest River, Idaho. He also attended school in Naderland, Colo. After graduation John entered the U.S. Navy.

While in the service John was married to Laverna and they had a son, George. They were divorced in April 1954. Following the divorce John remained in the U.S. Navy.

John was united in marriage to Anita Nelson on Oct. 24, 1956, in Crescent City, Calif., and they had three children, Wendy, Megan, and Edward. After the marriage they traveled from coast to coast. He was honorable discharged in June 1966, after 22 years of service, in Detroit, Mich. They then moved to Clark Fork, Idaho, and remained there for 33 years.

While in Clark Fork, John had several different jobs. He worked at Hay's Gas Station, then he had a garbage service, John's Fix-it Shop, owned and operated two gas stations. Then in October 1999, they moved to Sidney. His wife of 49 years, died on April 28, 2006, and he has remained here since. John entered the Sidney Health Center Extended Care Facility on Nov. 10, 2006.

John was a people person, bringing enjoyment to all that he encountered. While in Clark Fork, John enjoyed playing Santa Claus for many years. He was a life member of the VFW posts, and held all of the official positions. He also held several offices on the state level of the VFW. After moving to Sidney, he enjoyed fishing with his great-grandson, Adrian Frisk. John also enjoyed his visits to Washington with his grandsons Daniel and Connor. He loved to read Louis L'Amour books and was also written up in the Life Magazine for saving a diver's life.

John died on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2006, at the Sidney Health Center Extended Care Facility.

Surviving him are two daughters, Wendy (George) Frisk of Sidney and Megan Smith of Ephrata, Wash.; a son, George Owen; three granddaughters, Angel, Malissa and Becca; three grandsons, Eli, Daniel, and Connor; and two great-grandchildren, Adrian and Larree.

He was preceded in death by, his parents, wife-Anita, son-Edward, his brothers and sisters.

One less John Smith in the world. He will be missed by all.