Vernon Smith

Vern Smith, a 46-year resident of Placerville, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loved ones, May 20, 2017 after a short illness. Vern was born May 20, 1921, in the very small town of Lindsay, Oklahoma. He enlisted in the United States Army at the beginning of World War II and served in France receiving several medals, including The Purple Heart. After being honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant, Vern traveled to many areas of California pursuing a career in construction and finally settled in Placerville. He worked for Henning and Son for many years before retiring. Vern was a member of The International Union of Operating Engineers for 60 years. He was an active member of the community, belonged to several organizations including the Placerville and El Dorado Masonic Lodges, where he was past Master, a Shriner, and a long time VFW and American Legion member. In recent years, Vern become a very active volunteer at the Placerville Senior Center.

Vern was preceded in death by his wife Peggie of 41 years. He is survived by his daughter Sally (Darrell) Forrester, grandson Vernon (Randa) Forrester, granddaughter Alyssa Forrester (Steve) Adams, great grandchildren Dalton Forrester, Wayne Culbert and Amanda Figg-Hoblyn and his sister Mary (Lonnie) DaVault of Oklahoma. Vern will be truly missed by all the hearts he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations, in Vern’s name, to the Placerville Boys and Girls Club, Hospice or a charity of choice. A celebration of Vern’s life will be announced at later date. Online condolences may be posted at chapelofthepinesfunerals.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Chapel of the Pines, Placerville, CA.