David Paul Smith, Sr., 65, of Sedro-Woolley, passed away on Monday, May 17, 2021 of heart failure.  Through the years, he maintained a positive attitude and was always available for his kids and grandkids whom he cherished dearly.  He was always in good spirits and fun to be around.  He had so many amazing stories he loved to share especially his beaming pride about his grandkids.  He made an impact on everyone that crossed his path.  David was born on June 13, 1955 to Leon and Adelaide in Churchs Ferry, North Dakota.  His graduating class had a total of 12 kids.  He stayed in touch with many of them throughout his life.  The way of life in this small town helped to mold his work ethic and character and was where he developed a strong foundation.  David was married to the love of his life, Carol Hedington on February 6, 1979.  They were together for two years before they married and this past February, they celebrated their 42nd Wedding Anniversary.  Their love of one another has been a guidepost for the entire family.  David enlisted in the Navy out of high school in July of 1973 and retired in February of 1994 as Chief Petty Officer.  He was in boot camp during Vietnam and was active duty during both Desert Storm and Desert Shield.  After his retirement from the Navy, he worked at International Aero.  The name was later changed to Volant and he worked there for over 20 years.  He developed many strong relationships throughout these years.  David spent his retirement years, making memories with Carol, his kids and grandkids.  After his family, his greatest joy was riding his motorcycle.  Every year David rode over North Cascade Highway to celebrate opening day of the pass.  He would religiously stand in line for coffee and cinnamon rolls from the same woman until her granddaughter took over the tradition.  He also enjoyed participating in Oyster Run.  He said he felt free with the wind on his face and the sun on his back.

David is survived by his wife, Carol Smith of Sedro-Wooley; sons, Michael Smith and his fiancé Lainee Docken of Tacoma and David Smith Jr. and his wife, Marsha Smith of Oak Harbor; daughters, Cristy Olson of Washington and Kimberly Smith of Sedro-Wooley; grandchildren, Christopher, Kevin, Kyle, Carter, Joshua, Jack, Hailey, McKinley, Michael Jr., Bryson, Camdyn, Dylan, David III, and Blake; siblings, Joann Henke, John Smith and wife, Jolaine, Bob Smith, and Ron Smith and wife, Connie; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Adelaide Smith; brother, Leon Smith; daughter, Carrie Smith; mother and father-in-law, Phillip and Mary Hedington.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at the Skagit Valley Hospital for their attention, loving care and for allowing Carol to spend many hours with him on his final day.  The loss of this amazing man leaves a hole in all of our hearts.  He will be truly missed.  May he forever have the wind on his face and the sun at his back.

There will be a Graveside Service held at 11:00, Saturday, July 10, 2021 at the Hawthorne Memorial Park, 1825 East College Way, Mount Vernon, WA, followed by a Celebration of David's life at the family home, 705 Cultus Mountain Dr., Sedro-Woolley, WA.  The family would very much appreciate if you would share your memories of David and sign the online guest register.