Doyle Dean Smith

Doyle D. Smith, 80, known as Dean to his family and close friends, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on August 9, 2020, at his home in Gig Harbor. Dean served in the US Navy and later the US Coast Guard Air Search and Rescue. During his time in the Coast Guard, he became an avid skydiver, with over 2000 jumps in military and sports parachuting. After he retired from military service, he worked as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic at Post & Sons and later with Valley Freightliner Tacoma, Washington.

Dean was a good and loyal friend. He exemplified the Coast Guard motto “Semper Paratus” and was Always Ready to serve others before self. He was a proud volunteer for many years at the YMCA in Gig Harbor. Above all, Dean was most passionate about supporting his children and grandchildren from the bleachers, sidelines or online. He was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Gig Harbor.

Dean is survived by Candace, his wife of 53 years; daughters Katy Hodges, Heidi (Brian) Craddock, Kyra (RL) Rhoads and Jesse Henrickson, ten grandchildren and thirteen greatgrandchildren; brother Tom (Joyce) Smith, sister Treasure (David) Mailloux; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved son Kerry Dean, his sister Donna (Don) Wallace, and his parents Doyle W. and Vertna J. Smith.

Due to the covid-19 pandemic, private graveside services were held on August 14, 2020, at Haven of Rest Cemetery, Gig Harbor. A commemoration of his life will be celebrated on his birthday, August 23, 2021.

Remembrances may be made to US Coast Guard Mutual Assistance or American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

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