Doug is shown with a 43.5 pound halibut in 1950.

Doug is shown with a 43.5 pound halibut in 1950.

Douglas Hampton Smith, age 95, passed away on June 5 at Mount Grant General Hospital in Hawthorne.
Doug is survived by his niece, Naomi Margrave of Luning.

Doug was born on April 5, 1921 in Green Bay, Wis. to parents Warren Smith and Maryjane Smith. Doug grew up on a rural farm in Wisconsin. One of his fondest memories of his childhood was playing with his pet duck “Sir Francis Drake”, who thought he was a rooster. Dough loved to recant tales of his youth. In his teens, Doug was known to be one of the fastest cross-country runners in Wisconsin. He never lost a footrace and was able to run a mile in under four minutes ten seconds. His swiftness was a great asset when he served in the Third and Fourth Infantries during World War II. Doug worked in many trades throughout his long life. He attributed his longevity to a tonic of his own invention containing apple cider vinegar, honey and garlic. He often spoke of the tonic’s curative properties and that consuming it allowed him to operate a jackhammer well into his 70’s.

Doug was an active man. He was very involved in square dance calling for the majority of his life. He enjoyed fishing, socializing and bicycle riding. Local residents will remember Doug for riding his tricycle all over Hawthorne up to his 95th birthday. He will be missed by all of his friends at the Hawthorne Care and Share Senior Center. His family and friends will always remember him as an outgoing, kind and pious person.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Care and Share Senior Center in Hawthorne.