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CHARLES E. SMITH
October 12, 1917 ~ May 8, 2013
"Charlie possessed a quick smile and wit
that made him a pleasure to be around."
Charles Elman Smith passed away on May 8, 2013 in Vancouver, WA, at the age of 95. He was born on Oct. 12, 1917 to Charles and Beulah (Faulkner) Smith in Portland, OR and he graduated from Scio High School.
Charles enlisted in the Army, serving in the Infantry. After his discharge, he married Estella Barratt on Aug. 18, 1939 in Camas, WA.
Charles went to work at the Crown Zellerbach paper mill in 1940.
He was drafted back into the Army during WWII and achieved the rank of Corporal. After his second discharge, he returned to Camas and the paper mill where he worked for 39 years.
He and Estella raised two children who have remained close to this day.
Charles was a member of the 49er Trailer Club and the Moose Lodge. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and in 1995 had taken up golf. He traveled widely, including trips to Europe, Hawaii and Alaska. He and Estella maintained a home in Arizona and enjoyed being snowbirds for many years after retiring.
Charles was not a man to sit idle. He built his own home in Camas in his 30's, built an addition onto his home in Arizona while in his 80's and replaced all his windows in his Vancouver home while in his 90's.
Charles is survived by his wife, Estella; son, Gary Smith of Vancouver; daughter, Sandra Walling of Longview, WA; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Elite Care, 2400 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver, WA, Sun., May 19th at 2:00 p.m.
To send condolences or to sign the online guest book's, please visit www.straubsfuneralhome.com
and www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Uncle Smitty was always a delight to be with. He had a wonderful sense of humor with a very quick wit! We send our sincere condolences to Aunt Estella, Cousin Sandy, Cousin Gary and their families. Uncle Smitty will be dearly missed! Love, The Shorfs
Gena (Barratt) Shorf
May 19, 2013
Sandy, Gary and Mrs. Smith.... I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. He was always so sweet to me and so helpful in counseling me about raising dogs and other subjects when I lived near you guys. In high school, he was such a friendly and supportive cheerleader for Camas. He was a great guy and certainly will be missed.
Teddy Barnes-Melloy
May 15, 2013
How blessed we all are for knowing this special gentleman. Man God comfort and encourage you all.
Jim & Tina Walling
May 14, 2013
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