Jerome Patrick Smithson, 80

Jerome Patrick Smithson, 80, passed away on Friday, May 6, 2011, in West Richland, Wash.

He was born on Aug. 6, 1930, in Eureka, to Robert C. and Hazel (Robie) Smithson.

Jerome worked in the saw mills and served in the U.S. Air Force. In 1955, he was employed by Anaconda Aluminum Company. He married Darlene Carlson on Sept. 3, 1955, in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho.  They had two children and adopted one. He founded Jem Christmas Tree Company. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting and traveling. Jerome retired in 1985 after 30 years of employment. In 1987, he moved to the Oregon Coast where he enjoyed fishing, crabbing, clam digging and gardening.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Darlene; his son, Bill; father, Robert; mother, Hazel; brothers, Robert and William; and sisters, Margaret, Florence, Helen, Hazel, and Doris.

He is survived by his son, Robert John Smithson; daughter, Debra Lee Hoekema; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Private family services were held Friday, May 20, at Glacier Memorial Gardens in Kalispell.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Jerome’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Jerome’s tribute wall.