Final Salute

Donald Gary Smith, 83, of Lacon Illinois, formerly Utica Illinois, died October 13, 2026 at his home. Born in Coronado, California to the late Paul and Dorothy (Lewicki) Smith, Don served his country in the United States Navy as a Seabee.

Don is survived by his daughter Donette (John) Savvy of North Bend Oregon; son Brad (Kelly) Smith of Texas; sisters Gerry Skoog of Oglesby, Paula Dunbar of Salida California, his grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law Arnie Dunbar and Arnold Skoog.

Don‘s nickname was Crackers and he grew up in Utica. Growing up in that town in the 1950s was a Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn childhood. He spent many days riding his bike to nearby Starve Rock Sate Park where there are waterfalls and trails that go on for Miles. With Don‘s Love for nature, after the Navy he went to college and became a Park Ranger at the place he loved most, Starve Rock. Don learned to swim in the Illinois Michigan Canal, local creeks, and quarries. In his adult life Don walked every day. During these walks, Don would look for arrowheads, old coins, and other artifacts. Don was a founding member of the Fifth Street Boys, a group of retirees who sit on the main Street in Lacon. They were amalgamated into the character counting cars and hours in the Joe Stamm Band Song, Dollar General Sign. Don lived his life to the fullest and left this message: “So I am home. God bless you all”.

Cremation rites have been accorded and there will be a celebration of life and catholic Mass in his honor at a later date. Don‘s remains will be scattered in Starve Rock, where he loved to be and some will be placed to the Abraham Lincoln National Military Cemetery to be with those that served. Memorials can be made to the VFW of Oglesby Illinois or your local VFW. Cards can be sent from and condolences left at illinicremation.com.