Donald "Don" L. Smith

Donald “Don” L. Smith, 97, of Medford died Saturday, July 8, 2023 at Aspirus Medford Hospital.

Funeral services for Don will take place at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, with Pastor Nancy Amacher officiating. Burial will take place at Perkinstown Community Cemetery. Visitation will take place at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00, followed by military honors, performed by the Medford Honors Team. Pallbearers will be Adam and Leah Smith, Alison Reinders, Jennifer Nowak, and Mike and Nicole Kauss.

Don was born October 16, 1925 in Delhi, IA. He married Ruth Reggintine on November 10, 1945 and she preceded him in death September 12, 1978. His second marriage took place January 26, 1980 to Mildred “Millie” Kauss and she preceded him in death August 6, 2020.

Don joined the Navy in WWII and flew in the Pacific as a radio operator and gunner on torpedo bombers. He made a career out of the Navy, reaching the rank of Master Chief. He retired to Medford in 1973. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Medford VFW, and the American Legion.

In retirement he and Millie did a lot of traveling and were members of the Good Sam Club. He also enjoyed fishing and spent many winters in Texas. His latest hobby was restoring old tractors.

Don is survived by his sons, Terry Smith and David (Jill) Smith, both of Medford, stepson, Steve (Barb) Kauss of Green Bay. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his first and second wife, son, Daniel Smith, daughter, Jeri Lee Smith-Braun, daughter-in-law Greta Smith, step-daughter Caroline Koenig.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions to either the Medford VFW or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com.

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