Paul Merlin Smith

He joined the Marines in 1957. While home on leave he met his first wife Velma Imagene Laws. Together they raised two children Paul & Paula. After completing 4 years in the Marines he decided to continue his military career In the Army. He completed 2 tours in the Vietnam war. He was a decorated Army veteran of 22 years who was part of the Special Forces and received 2 bronze stars for his heroism along with many other awards.

After Velma passed he met his second wife Irene Pahl. Together Paul and Irene ran marathons and traveled the country in an RV visiting every national park and many military museums. After Irene’s passing he moved to surprise Arizona where he met Trudi Huebert at a singles club in the Arizona traditions community. He and Trudi loved to play golf, they continued to travel, laugh & love one another until the end.

He loved music and could often be found playing the acoustic or steel guitar. He lived life to the fullest and always had a positive attitude. He passed away peacefully in his home in Surprize Arizona on February 11, 2026 surrounded by family.

He is preceded in death by his parents William & Verna, brother Earl, sister Wanda, wives Velma, Irene & Trudi, daughter Paula, step-daughter Charlene Fields & grandson Chris Fields.

He is survived by his brother Phil, sons Paul Smith & Larry Wilson & wife Katina, Daughter in law April Cutitta & husband Jeff, step-son Craig Wilson & wife Patty; and his niece Candice who always held a special place in his heart. Grandchildren Shelly Fields, Larry Wilson, Paul Smith, Summer Smith, Mariah OBrian , Shelby OBrian, Craig Wilson, William smith, Samantha Smith, Tonia Thorpe, Trisha Wilson, Clayton Smith & Andrew Josephson and many great-grandchildren.

A special thank you to Hospice of the valley.