Obituaries

Ithaca- Donald W. Smith, age 74 of Ithaca, died Wednesday morning July 8, 2009 at his residence, per his wishes and surrounded by his loving family. He fought cancer with determination, courage and a positive attitude, inspiring us to face life’s challenges in a similar manner.

Mr. Smith was born in Ithaca, the son of the late Nestor & Myrtle B. Smith. Prior to retirement, he was a machinist at Emerson Electric for 28 years and a foreman at Ithaca Gun for 15 years. He enjoyed doing yard work and tending to his beautiful rose bushes. He was a graduate of Ithaca High School, Class of 1953.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. All who knew him will miss his kindness, optimistic outlook on life, and his terrific sense of humor. Don’s outgoing caring personality, generosity, and concern for other leaves behind a legacy for all who knew him. 

Survivors include his loving wife of 49 years, Mary Lou (nee: Corey) Smith; six children; William (Nancy) Fisher; Thomas Smith, Debbie (Jeff) Philip, Robert (Diane) Smith, Judy Hayes, and Ed (Diane) Smith; several very special grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Nancy Myers; several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his daughter, Barbara Krager and a brother, Richard Smith.

Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday (July 11, 2009) at the Herson Funeral Home, located at the Family Service Center, 110 S. Geneva Street, Ithaca. Burial will follow in East Lawn Cemetery, Ithaca. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. in the Community Room at Titus Towers. Memorials may be made to Hospicare, 173 East King Road, Ithaca.