Harland E Smith

He was born on October 11, 1925, in LaBelle, Missouri to Hugh and Martha B. Calhoun Smith. He married Dorothy Jane Weis on May 25, 1952 in Sharon Springs, Kansas. Harland and Dorothy lived in Sharon Springs, Kansas, Weskan, Kansas, Eaton, Colorado, Fort Collins, Colorado, the northern suburbs of Denver, Colorado, and Paola, Kansas. When living in Eaton, he served on the town council.

Harland worked for the Union Pacific Railroad for almost 40 years beginning his career as a telegrapher. He was an active member of the Junior Old Timers Club and Union Pacific Employees Club. After his retirement until age 85, he worked for King Soopers in Broomfield, Colorado

Harland served in the U.S. Navy during World War II on the LST 682. He was a coxswain driver, delivering men to the beach on D-Day. Harland was proud of his service to his country. He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, holding offices at post, district, and department levels. He was the Colorado Department Commander from 1995-1996.

He was a 50+ year member and past master of Sharon Springs Lodge #417 AF & AM of Kansas. He volunteered his services with DeMolay and Job’s Daughters. Being active in all of the United Methodist churches he attended, Harland was a member of the Broomfield United Methodist Church.

Harland was a people person who loved getting to know new folks. He especially enjoyed visiting with young people about his WW II experiences. His goal was to ensure that they would not forget those who had given the ultimate sacrifice for their country. He was often found watching or listening to a baseball game particularly one involving his beloved Colorado Rockies.

Harland is survived by his wife, Dorothy, daughter Rena Smith of Paola, KS, son Kerry and wife Barbara of Beaverton, OR, son-in-law Ray Seela of Greeley, CO, granddaughter Alexis (Brian) Carideo of Novato CA, grandson Jason Young of Beaverton, OR, and great grandson Federico Carideo, sister, Mary Elizabeth (Beth) Owen of Rushville, IL, several brothers and sisters–in-law, and several nephews and nieces.

Harland is preceded in death by daughter, Nyla Jo Seela, parents Hugh and Martha Smith, sister Martha Jean Lay, brothers-in-law Delbert Lay and James Owen, nephew Richard Owen and niece Stacey Lynn Lay.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Harland's name to Colorado VFW Foundation, 1400 Carr Street, Lakewood, Colorado 80214

Fond memories of Harland and expressions of sympathy for his family may be shared at the guestbook below.