Donald Smothers

Donald R. Smothers, 82, of Roanoke, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at his home. Born August 26, 1939 in Harrisburg, Illinois, he was the youngest child of Arthur and Anna (Wilkins) Smothers.

Growing up in Harrisburg, Don attended Harrisburg High School. He worked various jobs as a teen to earn money before he started as a stock boy at S.S. Kresge. Over the years Don showed how great of a work ethic he had and moved up into different roles for the company before managing his own store. On September 4, 1960, Don married Ann S. Duckworth and they moved to El Paso, Texas for his job. Don would move his family numerous times as he took on different responsibilities before moving to Indiana in 1978. In 1979 they made Roanoke their permanent home. Don retired on January 30, 1995 after 35 years with K-Mart as a re-buyer for K-Mart Distribution Centers. Following his retirement he stayed busy merchandising displays and counter setups for various grocery and retail stores.

Aside from being a hard worker, Don was strong, proud and loved his family. He enjoyed camping and found relaxation in his woodworking. He also was a skilled carpenter and known for re-structuring homes.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Ann Smothers; daughters, Karen (Dan) Sherbahn and Sharon Lay; son, Mark (Luann) Smothers; grandchildren, Jennifer, Jessica, Jocelyn, Jim, Jackie, Kelsey, Zach, Tyler and Bryce; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Anna Smothers; two brothers, Bob Smothers and Kenneth Smothers; and a sister, Barbara Waddell.

Visitation will be 12 to 1:45 pm Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will begin at 2 pm with Pastor Brad Miller of First Church of God officiating. A committal service will follow at his home and Don will be laid to rest at Pleasant Chapel Cemetery in rural Roanoke. The family encourages casual attire in Don's memory. Memorial donations may be given in memory to Bear Lake Camp or Lake Luther Camp. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Donald's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.

Don's service may also be watched live at 1:55 p.m. Tuesday though Facebook on DeMoney-Grimes Live page.