Donald C. Smolik

TSgt (Ret) Donald C. “Smokey” Smolik, age 61, resident of Midland, GA., passed away on Thursday, June 9, 2011 at Columbus Regional Medical Center, Columbus, GA. Memorial services are scheduled at the Chapel of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, GA on Sunday, June 12, 2011, 4 p.m. with Minister Buddy Jones officiating. Graveside services are Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, NE on Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 2 p.m. with full military honors. Mr. Smolik, son of the late Jearld Millard Smolik and Betty Ruth George Smolik, was born December 5, 1949 in North Platte, NE. He was retired from the U.S. Air Force where he served his country honorably for 21 years. During his distinguished military career, he served in the Vietnam Era Conflict and was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal (1OLC); Air Force Achievement Medal (1OLC); Vietnam Service Medal (w/Bronze star); and Vietnam Gallantry Cross (w/Palm) for his exemplary military service. He was a member of the Chattahoochee Valley Church of Christ; a member of the GWRRA; and a member of the Altus Masonic Lodge #62, Altus, OK. Mr. Smolik was preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra Kay Smolik. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Colleen Smolik of Midland, GA; daughter, Sharon R. Axthelm and her husband Jason of Brady, NE; two sisters, Donna Reiff of Cheyenne, WY and Jackie Broeder and her husband Steve of Grant, NE; two grandchildren, Case Avery Axthelm and Kate Allison Axthelm, both of Brady, NE; other relatives and friends.