Vernon (Vern) Smith

Reno - Vernon (Vern) Smith passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023. He is survived by his wife Barbara Sprenger Smith, his 3 daughters Kathleen Donaldson, Lori Williams, and Bonnie Kraskouskas (Tony) 6 grandchildren Josh Halliburton (Mallory), Dillon Hansen (Torri), Travis Williams (Lynsey), Katie Kraskouskas, Brett Williams (Georgia), & Amelia Kraskouskas (Cam) and 2 great-grandchildren (Lily and Henry). Born in Bosler, Wyoming, he was the 2nd youngest and the last of a generation of 12 children born to Benjamin and Mabel Smith. He often shared stories of his early days as sheepherder for the family ranch. Vern joined the Air Force and after spending time in Korea and Okinawa was stationed at Stead Air Force Base. He met Barbara and they spent 67 years raising a family in Reno, Nevada. He worked for Ford Tractor/Springmeyer Equipment in the early days, then was employed for 30+ years and retired from Sierra Pacific Power Company in 1987. Vern could fix anything and used this valuable skill to work additional jobs for Canepa Ranch in Verdi, Nevada Potato/Oppio and Capurro Ranches in Palamino Valley. In the 1960's he built his pride and joy a cabin at Donner Lake. He was an avid outdoorsman and LOVED snowmobiling and leading anyone who would follow the way to tops of mountains in the area. During his life also hunted in Wyoming, Nevada, and Alaska. He enjoyed spending many of his summers in Sterling, Alaska. Vern also enjoyed his several trips to Burning Man and making as many new friends as possible.

Vern was a family man providing may opportunities for his family. They experienced the wonder of nature at the cabin, water skiing on Donner Lake, traveled to the Midwest in a motorhome, and numerous snowmobile trips in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

As his health began to worsen, he never gave up. He survived illnesses and accidents that surprised even the doctors. Many times the family was told, "this may be it" and every time Vern fought like crazy and came back to continue to tell stories, work around the house/yard, and help neighbors with projects. He loved sharing his knowledge and wisdom.

Per Vern's adamant request no services will be held. He would want all who are left behind to "Keep on Keeping On!!"

The family would like to thank April and Sung from Saint Mary's Hospice for their care of Vern in his final weeks.