Paul Edward Smith

PAUL E. SMITH

Paul Edward Smith passed away in Eureka on March 14th at the age of 82. Paul was born on August 23rd, 1925, in Taft, California, to his parents Samuel and Marguarite Smith. He was graduated from Taft High School in June of 1943 and immediately entered the Marine Corps and proudly served his country in his unit, VMO-251, in the Pacific Theater of Operations until the end of World War II. Paul continued his service to his country in the National Guard after the war. He earned his degree at Taft Community College in 1949. Paul had a love of all things outdoors and his working career included employment at Sequoia National Park and many years working as an agricultural inspector in both Humboldt and Trinity counties. Paul would later serve for many years as Trinity County Agricultural Commissioner and County Sealer of Weights and Measures. Paul was known for his bountiful gardens and many were blessed by his gift of gardening.

Paul married to Audrey Huss in 1950 and settled in McKinleyville, CA. In 1970 he married Gwen (Eglin) Abrams of Eureka and soon after moved to Weaverville, CA. Gwen passed away in 1997 and Paul later moved to Willow Creek. On August 22nd of 1999, Paul married the love of his later life, Margaret (Peggy) Ward. They enjoyed and loved their time together in Willow Creek until his death.

Paul received Christ as his Savior in Weaverville in 1971.Knowing God, coupled with his family upbringing and later service in the Marine Corps sharpened Paul’s love, devotion and service to his family, his church, his community and countless neighbors and friends throughout the years. Paul was one who always considered the needs of those all around him, not just himself.

Paul is survived by his loving wife Peggy, sister Beverly McDannold of Fort Bragg, CA, his children Laisne’ Hamilton (Bob) of Lakeport, CA, Edward “Eddie” Smith (Joy) of Enumclaw, WA, Scott Abrams (Judy) of Greenville, CA, Steve Abrams (Renee) of Scotia, CA, Kathryn Olsen (Gary) of Susanville, CA, Connie Sundberg (Fred) of Fieldbrook, CA, Bill Spencer (Betty) of Eureka, CA, and Fred Spencer of Eureka, CA, Rod Ward Shirley of Troy, Ohio, Aunt Rosie of Muncie, IN, son-in-law Rick Bollman (Jacque) of Willow Creek, CA, and brothers-in-law Adrian Maxwell of Taft, CA, and Mike Eglin (Sharron) of Fortuna, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many very special friends. Paul was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Mary Maxwell, Audrey Smith, Gwen Smith, daughter Debbe Bollman, and grandson Jared Abrams.

Paul’s family would like to express our deep gratitude and appreciation Dr. Benske and staff in Willow Creek and Dr. Ploss and staff in Eureka for their unwavering care and support for Paul during the past several years. Our appreciation and thanks also to St. Joseph Hospital, Hospice of Humboldt and the staff of Pacific Healthcare for supporting Paul and the family during this difficult time.

Services for Paul will be held on Saturday, March 22nd at 11 a.m.in Willow Creek at Faith Center Trinity Campus, 39025 Hwy 299. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. at the cemetery in Weaverville with a reception following. Memorial contributions can be made to the Charity of your choice.

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