Shannon "Dutch" Leonard Smith

Shannon “Dutch” Smith, 92, of Terre Haute, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 22, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 10, 1925, in Terre Haute to Frank and Nora (Roach) Smith. He married Rita Hanley at Sacred Heart Church on June 16, 1951. Together they raised a family of seven: five girls and two boys. Shannon is survived by his seven children: Angela (David) Walker, Shanna Smith, Mary (Paul) Huddleston, Tim (Mary) Smith, Meghan (Chuck) Walden, Kevin (Jennifer) Smith, and Amy (Mike Blevins); nineteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy Miller, Ruth Corbin, and Helen Ranson; sisters-in-law, Dorthy Smith and Jean Chappelle; brother-in-law, Dick (Pat) Hanley; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 44 years, Rita Smith; brothers, Bud and Tom Smith; and sisters, Mary and Irene. Shannon spent his first 16 years attending school at St. Leonard Catholic Church. In 1942, he joined the United States Navy while he was still a junior in high school. He spent his 17th birthday in Basic Training. Shannon served in WWII, Korea, and various other places around the world. He became a Corpsman and often served alongside the Marines. He got out of the Navy in 1964. He then worked for Bemis for 26 years until his retirement. Shannon enjoyed gardening, fishing, and fixing anything. He and Rita welcomed all who came to their home and most likely fed them while they were there. Shannon loved to cook, and his family loved getting calls from him saying, “Food’s ready, come on over!” His grandkids fondly remember him as always having a pocketful of mints. He was the family baby whisperer. His calming aura would sooth any crying baby that was handed to him. Shannon had a delightful sense of humor and never missed an opportunity to tease someone in fun. He was a hard-working, quiet man. Shannon didn’t talk about serving others, rather he taught it by his actions. He was born and raised Catholic. After not practicing Catholicism for nearly fifty years, Shannon went back to the church six years ago and was faithful ever since. He was a long-time member of American Legion Post 104 and VFW Post 972. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, at Thomas Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 26 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. After services, Shannon will be cremated with burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.thomasfuneralhome.net