Harold Eugene Smith

Harold Eugene Smith (also known as “Spike”) was born December 19, 1930, in Kokomo, Indiana, to his parents Mae Margaret and Charles Marion Smith. He grew up in Indiana with his two brothers Richard “Dick” and Tom Smith. Upon graduation from high school he enlisted in the US Army and became a chief relay and radio operator that included a tour in Germany supporting the Berlin Airlift. After being honorably discharged, Harold began his career as a telecommunications engineer, manager, and director at Motorola, Rockwell-Collins International, and Central and Southwest Utilities before retiring and starting his own telecommunications consulting business. His 40+ year career afforded him the opportunity to travel the world including the Middle East, Europe, Central and South America, and Canada.

Harold met and fell in love with his wife of 54 years, Rosalie Lentine, in Chicago while ballroom dancing. Dancing became their favorite pastime and their dedication earned them many trophies including numerous first place finishes at the annual Chicago Grand Star Ball, Mattison Cup, and the all-around Latin/American Championship. On April 22, 1962, Harold and Rosalie married at Trinity Church in Chicago. In 1963, they moved to Richardson, Texas, to start a new job and raise a family. Richardson would be called home for the rest of Harold’s live except for a two year stint living and working in Vancouver, BC. Harold and Rosalie continued their passion for dancing by winning more competitions including the all-around champion at the Dallas Wintergarden Ballroom where they also taught lessons.

On February 14, 1964, Rosalie gave birth to their first son, Dan Charles and two years later their second son, Alan Clayton on May 29, 1966. Harold instilled into his two boys the value of hard work, honesty, integrity, loyalty, and the ability to fix anything; all of which they continue to live by today.

In his later years, Harold never slowed down and was an inventor, avid photographer, computer instructor, lover of the symphony, online critic of “Dancing of the Stars”, good friend and neighbor, supportive father, and dedicated husband. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Harold is preceded in death by his mother and father, Mae and Charles Smith, and his two brothers, Dick and Tom Smith. He is survived by his wife, Rosalie; son Alan and his fiancé Debbie; son Dan and his wife Rebecca; and their two children Olivia and Evan.

Harold Eugene Smith “Spike” will be laid to rest and interned on October 3rd at the DFW National Cemetery at 10:30 am with military honors.

For anyone who is in need of hotel accommodations, the family would like to share the following information:

http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/texas/hilton-garden-inn-dallas-richardson-DALRIGI/index.html?fsv=1474737050043

Hilton Garden Inn Richardson

$99/night including breakfast - 5 rooms held until Sep 28th

Arrangements under the direction of Sparkman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Richardson, TX.