Obituary: Lynn Smith
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Lynn Smith, who peacefully passed away at the age of 95 on March 2. Lynn was a music lover, world traveler, engineer, a veteran of World War II, and a loving parent and spouse. Born in 1927 in Moline, IL, Lynn grew up during a time of great change and uncertainty in the world. Lynn was one of this nation’s Greatest Generation, and as a young man, Lynn answered the call to serve his country and joined the armed forces during World War II. From an early age, he had always wanted to be a pilot, so he enlisted in the Army Air Forces. Before being deployed overseas, the war ended and Lynn studied mechanical engineering at Bradley University in Peoria, IL. After graduation, Lynn and his new wife Alice moved to southern California to start his long career engineering components of some of the most advanced aircraft in the world. He was most happy to reflect on his experience on the skunkworks team responsible for the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter, one of the fastest and most-powerful military aircraft developed in the 1950s. He also started a family and was blessed with two children, Steve and Sharon, and raised them in Pasadena, California. After a job-related move to Massachusetts and back, the family settled in Brea, California. He was also a “car guy”, having enjoyed several high-end models, but his absolute favorite was his simple, 1965 Beetle. Unfortunately, Lynn suffered great loss throughout his life, as he was widowed three times. Despite this, Lynn remained steadfast in his faith and relied on God’s strength and comfort to help him through the difficult times. He was an active member at Prescott Presbyterian Church in Arizona and regularly attended Athey Creek Christian Fellowship in Oregon.
One of Lynn’s greatest passions was music, and he spent many happy hours listening to his favorite records, attending concerts and performances, and listening to opera while working in the garage. He was also an avid traveler, and he loved nothing more than exploring new places and cultures around the world. Over the years, he visited many exotic locations, including Iran, Japan, Greece, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and others, and he always had his camera and telephoto lens on the ready to capture all he saw. He made many new friends with the caregivers at West Hills Assisted Living in Portland, where he lived his final 6 years. They often said how they were warmed by Lynn’s engaging smile. Lynn will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but we take comfort in knowing that Lynn is now reunited with his loved ones who have passed before.
Lynn is survived by his children, Sharon (Smith) Dunnahoo and Steve Smith, and by grandchildren Brendan Dunnahoo and Maura Dunnahoo, and Joshua Smith and Sarah Smith. Burial will be at National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix at 2 p.m. March 23.
Information provided by family.
- Dignity Health-YRMC to consolidate, reduce services, staff amid financial challenges
- YCSO mourns loss of sergeant who suffered heart attack at home March 24
- Vehicle falls into ravine off Highway 89 near Paulden; 3 occupants taken to hospital
- Why are flags at half-staff?
- Bridge at Fain Lake remains closed after heavy flooding
- Judge Hancock given non-judicial duties, cases reassigned
- Sewer overflow leads to high levels of E. coli in Granite Creek, Watson Lake
- Need2Know: Mobile Health Doc provides care on wheels; A Shear of Joy now open at former Shear Factor salon in Prescott Valley; Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce accepting scholarship applications
- Prescott works to clean up after heavy rainstorm
- Prescott Police find no one in home after report of burglary in progress
- ‘Gray Death’ drug appears in Prescott Valley
- Police seek info about fatal collision at Willow Creek Road, Haas Boulevard in Prescott
- Highway 69 open after two-car collision causes closure in both directions near Lowes
- Yavapai County Superior Court judge arrested on ‘super extreme DUI’ charge
- Collision on Highway 69 in Prescott Friday leaves 3 seriously injured
- ADOT announces upcoming I-17 closures
- Prescott’s streets, businesses serve as sets for first of mystery movies
- Prescott Valley Police need help locating hit-and-run suspects
- Obituary: Tyler Zachary Greene
- Need2Know: Summit 4X4 Company opens Prescott Valley location; Human Bean drive-thru espresso stand coming soon to Prescott Valley; Lucy Dee’s in Prescott changes name to State 48 Hometown BBQ
SUBMIT FEEDBACK
Click Below to: