BAR HARBOR – Donald Edward Smith was born Jan. 2, 1928 and passed away Oct. 26, 2012 at a Bangor healthcare facility from complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
After graduating from Bar Harbor High School in 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy for two years and then continued on to the University of Maine-Orono graduating with a B.S. Degree in Horticulture. From there he spent 40 years of his professional life working as superintendent of grounds at Dumbarton Oaks in Washington, D.C. He was a Master Mason with Albert Pike Lodge and a member of Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Washington, D.C. His intention was always to return to Bar Harbor and enjoy his retirement, which he did in 1992. He became involved in numerous community organizations such as MDI YMCA, Jesup Memorial Library, Bar Harbor Historical Society and the annual Acadia National Park Hawk Watch. His lifelong passion for nature and gardens led him to become an active volunteer at the Wild Gardens of Acadia at Sieur de Mont Springs.
Don was predeceased by parents, Clarence and Mona Smith; his sisters, Elizabeth Johnson and Helen Longton; and his brother, Clarence Smith. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; son, Donald Smith and wife, Shirley; daughter, Ann Smith and husband, Tom Fernald; granddaughters, Caroline and Nell Woodworth. He is also survived by brothers, Merrill Smith and Kenneth Smith; sister-in-law, Jean Kief; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 2, at Bar Harbor Congregation Church with the Rev. Doctor Sandra Reed officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wild Gardens of Acadia, Friends of Acadia, in Don’s name.
Donald Edward Smith
