DONALD G. SMITH

NORTHEAST HARBOR – Donald G. Smith, 88, passed away May 2, 2007, at his home. He was born Sept. 25, 1918, in Otter Creek, the son of George and Bessie (Grover) Smith. Don lived a very full life filled with dignity and his joyful spirit brought smiles to those around him. Don was able to remain at home during his illness thanks to the loving care of his wife and family. Don was passionate about his work as a landscaper. Following in the footsteps of his father, Don’s career as a master gardener touched landscapes all over the island, including prestigious gardens, such as the Asticou Azalea Garden, Thuya, and the Rockefeller Gardens. Don owned and operated Don Smith & Son Landscaping for many years, being in the forefront of the industry. He was a mentor to all those he employed and by extension, all those who knew him. Don’s generosity was evident by his willingness to stop whatever he was doing to help a friend and loved to give free advice. Once retired, Don continued his work creating beautiful gardens for his friend, Mrs. J.P. Grace. The heart and pride of his gardens were his dahlias. Don was an avid naturalist, who felt most at home in the woods communing with the flora and fauna. He loved being outdoors, whether on the water, playing golf, or working. Don’s creativity came from the island’s natural beauty and was the inspiration for his gardens. Most days you would find Don sitting at the marina eating his lunch and watching the daily activity. Don loved going to his Bayside Road camp to watch the sunset and share time with family and friends. He also enjoyed spending his winters at his home in Florida. Don loved animals, especially his dogs, from the first puppy his parents surprised him with, to his buddy, Kebo, who was always at his side. Don was a longtime member of the Kebo Valley Golf Club, known as “Spanky;” the Lion’s Club; the Otter Creek Fire Department; the Congregational Church of Otter Creek; and the Union Church of Northeast Harbor. He also served as selectman for the town of Mount Desert for many years. Don loved the game of golf, particularly with his Twilight League buddies. Don had an infectious smile, and he will be missed by his family and everyone that knew him. Don was predeceased by sons, Clifford “Kippy” and Timothy Smith; first wife, Arlene Reed Smith; his twin, Doris Ralph; sisters, Gladys Richardson, Bernice Peters, and Theresa Salisbury and her twin brother, Julian Smith. He is survived by granddaughter, Kristine Smith Toth and husband, Brian; and his great-grandchildren, Cole, and twins, Lydia and Lyla. Don is also survived by his devoted wife of 21 years, Elizabeth “Libby” Smith; a special loved one, daughter-in-law, Roberta Sharp; and granddaughter, Jocelyn Sharp. He is survived by his devoted stepchildren, Susan (Morrison) Damon and husband, Bruce; grandchildren, Emily Damon Dong, Danyelle McGarr, and Cedric Damon; great-grandchildren, Serena and Lexi Young, and Lulu Damon Dong; stepdaughter, Theresa (Morrison) Stradley and husband, Kevin; grandchildren, Melissa Shollenbarger, Christopher Closson, Joshua and Elizabeth Busby; great-grandchildren, Brennan Shollenbarger and Anna Closson; stepsons, James Morrison and Timothy Murphy; stepdaughter, Patricia (Murphy) Normandeau and husband, Mike; grandchildren, Jonah, Caleb, and Ella; nephews and nieces, Paul Richardson, Jullian Peters, Paul and Steve Salisbury, DeeDee Paine, Connie Hector, Beverly Thatcher, and Sandra Clark, along with many great-nieces and great-nephews. Special friends include Robert Walls, Chuck Burnell and John Hinckley, whom were also very dear to Don’s heart. Friends are invited to call 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 7, at Otter Creek Hall, formerly known as the Congregational Church. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 8, at Union Church of Northeast Harbor with the Rev. William Bigelow officiating. Interment will be at Otter Creek Cemetery, Mount Desert. The family wishes that contributions be made in his memory to the Kippy and Timothy Smith Scholarship Fund, care of Mary Wallace, Guidance Department, MDI High School, P.O. Box 180, Mount Desert, ME 04660. Special thanks to Dr. Brian Caine, Kay Moore, nursing associate, “Emma,” Hospice and Mount Desert Island Hospital staff. Arrangements by Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St., Mount Desert. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com