Smith, Eldon Wayne

DEFOREST – Eldon Smith, age 87, passed away on Thursday, February 2, 2017. He was born on April 27, 1929 in Richland Center to the late Myron and Helen (Long) Smith. Eldon graduated from Ithaca High School in 1948. Eldon was in the Army during the Korean War and served his time in Germany. He was united in marriage to Ruthann Derr on July 9, 1956.

Eldon was a kind man with an infectious smile who was often seen wearing his “Mr. Rodgers” sweater. He enjoyed playing basketball and curling with Ruthie (he was proud of being a “skip”) until his kids came along filling his time. He enjoyed coaching softball, traveling to wrestling matches, grandkids sporting events, riding his lawn mower, playing cards and relaxing with a Korbel at the end of the day to watch the action on the lake or see the WI River flow past at the family cabin.

Eldon is survived by his wife of 60 years Ruthann, his children: Clifton (Colleen), Grant (Lacinda), Larry (Norma), Rhonda (Kevin Gilbertson), Neil (Susan), Daryl (Shaunde), Amy (Tim Pfeil), 13 grandchildren: Devlin, Rachel, Matt (Chrissy), Ben, Garrett, Adam (Tracy), Courtney, Alec, Jason (Dawn), Carrie (Ryan), Abby (Alex), Chambree, Neeleigh and 7 great grandchildren.

A private family gathering will be held on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 followed by a celebration of Eldon’s life at Rudes Lanes, 210 E. Holum Street in DeForest from 4-8pm The family would like to thank Ryan Funeral Home of DeForest, Reverend David Brynelson and all of the staff at Heartland Hospice for their assistance.

“Kindness” was one of Eldon’s favorite sayings, so as a tribute to him let us all remember to “always be humble and kind”. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Heartland Hospice or Badger Honor Flight.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Eldon Smith

April 27, 1929 - February 02, 2017

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