Von Lee Smith

Von L. Smith, 89 passed away Wednesday January 17, 2018 in Rancho Cordova, California, surrounded by his loving family following a lengthy illness.

He leaves his beloved wife of 69 years, Dorothy (Dottie) Smith, his daughter, Cheryl Pizza (Frank); sons David (Sharon) and Richard (Kim). His eldest son, Stephen and infant great-grandson Wyatt, preceded him in death. He also was the much loved grandfather to eight grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. In addition, he leaves behind his dear sister Sue (Tom) Davis of Overland Park, Kansas.

He was born in Sycamore Valley, Ohio to Roy and Pauline Smith. After graduating high school he enlisted in the Navy Submarines. Upon completion of his duty, he earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. He spent the next twenty years serving his country as an Air Force officer engineer and navigator while also maintaining flying status throughout his career. During his military career he flew combat in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.

After retiring from the Air Force as a major, he worked 20 years for Sears as a salesman. He enjoyed playing squash, golfing, square dancing, round dancing, and snow skiing. However, some of his greatest joys were traveling in later years with his dear Dottie and spending time with his family. He was a member of River City Christian Church and previously Sun River Church. His Christian faith sustained him through life and he left this earth with the confidence of eternity with Jesus.

A funeral service will be held at Mount Vernon Memorial Cemetery in Fair Oaks on January 29, 2018 at 10:00 AM. All are welcome to attend.