Obituary of David Earle Smith

 David Smith 86, a longtime resident of Princeton New Jersey, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2024. Born in Palo Alto, CA, David was the second son of Earle Smith and Louise Silver. He was a devoted Son, a wonderful Brother, beloved Uncle, Cousin, and Great Friend, who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

David’s early years were spent enjoying time with his Mother, Father, and Brother in Palo Alto, and for several years in Bisbee AZ, where his father worked as a rancher. Back in Palo Alto he enjoyed working with the family at Smith’s Sport Shop. In his teens, he attended Palo Alto High School, and later went on to attend Stanford University. After graduating he became a Chemical Engineer at FMC Corporation. Throughout his career, he was highly respected for his knowledge, and problem-solving skills, always enjoying working with his fellow engineers.

David enjoyed many hobbies, spending time at the Wooley Camp, Flyfishing on the Klamath and Eel rivers. Enjoying hunting, riding horses, and working the machinery at the ranch in Paso Robles with his brother Derry. Later he was a tennis enthusiast, he also enjoyed skiing at Dodge Ridge, and trout fishing in Pinecrest, where he spent many summers. He enjoyed hiking in the redwoods, educational seminars, and dining with his great friends. He was also an avid traveler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earle and Louise, step mothers Dottie and Dorthy, his brother Derry, his sister-in-law, Margaret. David is survived by his nephew Douglas, and cousins Suzy, Kalaine, and Vicky of Switzerland, as well as many dear friends.

David will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on through his family and friends.