Harold G. Smith

1932 - 2013

Harold G. Smith

Harold G. Smith, age 81, of Stevens Point, died September 18, 2013 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Marshfield.

Harold was born on May 27, 1932 to the late AC & Diana (Miller) Smith in Eau Claire, WI. He grew up there, and attended the local Catholic schools.

Following high school, Harold enlisted into the US Naval Reserves in 1949. He entered into active duty on July 1, 1952. During his time of service, Harold worked as a technician on flight simulators. He was honorably discharged on May 27, 1955. Following his service, he attended technical school studying electronics.

Harold married Gloria Burgess on October 30, 1954 in Eau Claire, WI. They were married for 58 years. She now resides at North Haven Memory Care in Stevens Point.

In 1956, Harold moved his family to Stevens Point and began working for Wisconsin Bell Telephone company as a repair and installation technician. There he met Joseph Genovese and they became life long family friends. After 38 years of service Harold retired from Wisconsin Bell. In retirement he worked part time at an area golf course and more recently at Kmart.

Harold will be remembered for his friendly and outgoing nature. He enjoyed helping others in any way that he could. Harold enjoyed bowling, golfing, horse shoes, card games and playing bingo at church. He was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 6, Telephone Pioneers, Moose Lodge, 40 ET 8, and Amvets 1051.

Harold had many health challenges throughout his life. He overcame Guillain-Barre syndrome, among several other debilitating health issues. During his struggles, Harold never complained. His courageous will to survive gave him a great appreciation for life and reinforced his catholic faith.

Survivors include his wife, Gloria; children, Michael (Claudia) Smith of Plover, Rebecca Zortman of Stevens Point, Debra Smith of Stevens Point, Pamela Smith of Plover; grandchildren, Stephanie Smith of Los Angeles, CA, Reannon (Andrew) Lochner of Madison, Matthew Zortman of Stevens Point, Kristen (Alex) Sutherland of Nashua, New Hampshire, Michelle (Brendt) Christensen of Champaign, IL; great grandchildren, Samantha Isherwood, Owen Sutherland. He is further survived by his sister, Diane Heitkamp of Waterloo, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, & 2 sisters.

A Funeral Mass will be held 10:30am, Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at St Stanislaus Catholic Church with Rev. Tom Lindner presiding. Visitation will be held on Monday from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Boston Funeral Home with a Rosary beginning at 7:00 pm. Visitation will also be held at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 am until time of service. A private Interment service will be held in Guardian Angel Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St Stanislaus Catholic Church. Online condolences may be made at www.bostonfuneralhome.net.