Donald James Smith, born on January 22, 1952, in Healdsburg, passed away peacefully at home on June 30, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Don, or DeDon as he was often called, was known for his unique dry sense of humor and his love of practical jokes. He enjoyed fishing the rivers, camping, and was a devoted Dodgers fan as well as a Giants fan after his son began his career in San Francisco. An animal lover, Don always had a dog by his side, including his Irish Setter, Prince, and his beloved little Gigi, who was with him until the very end.

After retiring from the Louisiana Pacific Pulp Mill, Don found great joy in caring for his grandkids, nieces, and nephews. He was a truly dedicated father to Joshua and Remie. He could often be found tinkering in his garage or hanging out in his man cave. Don had a passion for unique vehicles, whether it was an Austin Healey, a Ranchero, a Bobcat, or a Volkswagen van. He also supported his wife, Lorraine, with their horses, helping at horse camp, towing trailers, mucking stalls, and feeding the animals.

Don’s love for motorcycles, especially Harley-Davidsons, led him to become a member of the Cruising Clowns Motorcycle Club, where his playful personality fit right in. He also enjoyed spending time at the casinos.

When Don was a senior at Arcata High School, he met the love of his life, best friend, and soul mate, Lorraine. They were introduced by a mutual family friend on Chester Street in Arcata, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. Together, they raised Joshua and Remie, always quiet but always there for those in need. Don’s love for Lorraine was unparalleled, and he cared deeply for her until the very end. Even in his final days, Don’s main concern was ensuring that Lorraine would be taken care of. On June 14, while in the hospital, they celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

Don is survived by his wife, Lorraine; son, Joshua (wife, Carly); daughter, Remie (husband, Jonah); and grandchildren, Sawyer, James, and Rosemary. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Jane; brother, John; nephews Nathan and Adam; all his Zerlang family; and his good friend, Jim. He was preceded in death by his father, Jim, who was honored by having Jim Smith Lane named after him, as well as his sister, Connie, who passed away at a young age, and his grandmother, Nonnie, whom Don helped care for in Cloverdale.

Don took great pride in his work at the mill and in driving down Jim Smith Lane, dedicated in memory of his father. He attended all family gatherings, where it was important to him that hamburgers were served — no onions, no tomatoes, and ketchup only.

The family invites everyone to a “Farewell Don” party at the Zerlang family cabin, 1369 Fay St., Samoa, on Sunday, September 1st, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hamburgers will be served — no onions, no tomatoes and ketchup only.

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