Harry Dudley Smith

A February memorial was held at the American Legion Post #27 in Apache Junction, Ariz., for Harry Dudley Smith.

Harry was born in Little Rock, Ark. He and his mother traveled to Spirit Lake by bus when he was a very young boy and his mother took employment as a nanny for the family of Herb Boehm. Later, his mother and Herb were married.

Harry attended school there and graduated in 1948. Following graduation, he joined the United States Army, Infantry Division and served two terms overseas during the Korean conflict. He was awarded several metals of honor, including two Purple Hearts.

Upon leaving the service, he took advantage of the G.I. bill and attended college, first at Vermillion State in South Dakota and later transferred to the University of Iowa, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree.

He was employed by several firms, including the United States Government, as an aeronautical engineer.

In June 1965, he was united in marriage with Jean Scott. They had two children; a daughter, Jennifer, and son, Douglas. They resided in California, Washington and New Mexico. He was a devoted husband and father and committed to his work.

In the late 1980s, Harry and his family moved from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Gilbert, Ariz., where he accepted a position with Motorola Company. He retired from Motorola in 1999. In 2001, his wife, Jean passed away.

Harry was an avid golfer and enjoyed all aspects of the sport. He organized a club called the Saddle Shooters for friends living in the area who originated from Spirit Lake. Eventually, he expanded the invitation to attend the events by mailing out many invitations to people in northwest Iowa area who often spent time in Arizona during the winter months. The Saddle Shooters events were well-attended and enjoyed by all who came.

In October 2006, he was united in marriage with Joan Beckman. They lived in the Sunland East Community of Mesa, Ariz. They enjoyed traveling and led a very enjoyable and active life until he was stricken with cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Joan, his son, Doug, a daughter, Jennifer, two grandchildren, Samantha and Brad, his brother-in-law, Bruce Scott and sister in law, Pat Scott Lonan, a niece, Kelly Erickson, nephew Jason Scott and grandnephew, Wayne Allen and grandniece, Stacey Lonan and many friends who will all cherish his memory.

Donations in Harry's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of choice.