Nicoll Phelps "Nick" Smith

Nicoll ("Nick") Phelps Smith of Salem, Oregon

November 4, 1947 – January 12, 2026

Nick was the second of four children born to DeWilton ("De") and Julia (Gallagher) Smith, and is survived by his three siblings, Phebe Smith, Jeff Smith, and Thane Smith, his daughter Karon Springstead, her husband Todd, and their two children, Kylie and Tayvin.

Nick was born in Missoula, Montana, and his family moved frequently throughout his childhood. Growing up, he was a very intelligent and curious child. Much of his childhood was spent disassembling things to figure out how they worked. He enjoyed working with his hands and creating things and was skilled with electronics, carpentry, and machine work.

In 1966, Nick graduated from Juneau Douglas High School. Following his graduation, he chose to attend Northrup Institute of Technology in Inglewood, CA. It was in California that he met Jill Axten, and the two were married in 1971. Not long after getting married, they moved to Salem, OR. In 1982, their only daughter, Karon, was born.

Nick and Jill opened their home to many people over the years. They became foster parents, hosted exchange students, and always had an open door for anyone needing a place to stay. After Karon joined Job's Daughters, Nick took an active role in many Masonic organizations. There, he met countless people who became like family to him. This was where he met his best friend, Janet Hernandez, and her family, who quickly became treasured additions to his own family.

Nick enjoyed the outdoors, liked to travel, loved reading, enjoyed camping and hiking, and had a strong sense of adventure. He loved spending time with family. He adored his grandchildren, Kylie and Tayvin, and he was very proud of the people they were becoming. He cherished his biological and chosen family members, taking great pride in their personal milestones and accomplishments.

Nick had a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. He liked to laugh and he found great joy in the people around him. He held a strong sense of community and had a huge heart for others. His legacy will be his countless acts of kindness that made people feel loved and appreciated. Nick will be missed by all who have been touched by his love and his caring heart.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on April 11, 2026, at the Scottish Rite Center in Salem, OR.