Lynn Duane Smith

Lynn Duane Smith, 87, of Weston, passed away on Saturday, June 23, 2012 of cancer at the Close to Home Hospice Hospitality House in Gillette, Wyoming.Lynn was born May 23, 1925, in Arnold, Nebraska. He was one of two children born to William W. and Bertha E. (Robison) Smith. The family lived in Campbell County, Wyoming all of Lynn's 87 years. He lived as a youngster on a homestead near Recluse and moved to his ranch north of Weston in 1946 after World War II. Lynn served in the Navy beginning March 1943, as a torpedo man aboard the naval ship, Portunas. His tour of duty took him to Farragut, Idaho, New Guinea, the Philippine's, Mendima Gulf, and Coolingatta, Australia where he developed his love for ice tea. On September 1, 1946, his marriage to Donna Jean Keck allowed them to live on the same ranch, in the same house, celebrating 65 years on September 1, 2011. He raised Angus cattle, was active in the Shrine Buckskin Horse Patrol, loved ranching, and children. Lynn was a thirty-second degree mason belonging to: Gillette Lodge, York and Scottish Rite Bodies, Kalif Shrine Temple and Royal Order of the Jesters. Lynn was active in his community serving as a Demolay advisor, School Board for District 12, PMA now the National Resource Conservation Service, and the first Campbell County Weed and Pest Board. He also served as President of the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council. He was preceded in death by his brother, Lee R. Smith, El Paso, Texas and both parents. He is survived by his wife, Donna (Keck) Smith of 65 years and daughter Lynette Smith of Laurel, Montana, grandsons Russell Perkins, Houston, Texas, and Reid (Lisa) Perkins of Missoula, Montana and son Rod (Katie) Smith, grandchildren Merritt (fiance Sarah Mulholland) and Cinnamon Smith of Gillette. Additional survivors are his brother Lee R. Smith's children in Texas, and Mike (Lynn) Smith from Gillette. At his request there will be no services, burial will take place at a later date. Cremation has taken place. Memorial or condolences may be made in Lynn Smith's name to the Shriner's Hospital for Children in care of the Kalif Shrine Temple, P.O. Box K, Sheridan, Wyoming 82801 or Walker Funeral Home 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences can also be sent via the web site at www.walkerfuneralgillette.comFuneral Home:Walker Funeral Home410 Medical Arts CourtGillette, WYUS 82716