Don was born June 11, 1930, in Anaconda, MT to Charles and Emily Smet. He passed away peacefully in his home on October 23rd. Nicknamed "Stack" he graduated from Central H.S. in Anaconda where he was captain of the basketball team. He attended Gonzaga University before meeting Peggy Olson from Helena, MT. They were married on October 21, 1950, and just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary.
Don is survived by his wife, Peggy and nine children: Donna Gemeinhart (Dave); Carole Williams (Tim); Dave Smet (Nancy); Ken Smet (Mary Lou); Bob Smet (Merriah Barnett); Steve Smet (Robin); Ted Smet (Nancy); Don Smet; Colleen Hagan (Steve); 25 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He was also close to his nieces and nephews.
Don worked in Anaconda as a switchman for the Butte, Anaconda and Pacific Railroad before moving his growing family to Spokane in 1965. Don started a new career as a real estate broker then worked as a mortgage loan officer before retiring in 1995.
Don was active in St. Xavier Parish and later in St. Charles Parish. He was a loving husband, father, grandpa, uncle, coach, and friend. He particularly enjoyed annual family reunions, Super Bowl parties, Gonzaga basketball, Seahawks and having his family always close.
A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, October 30, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Parish on 4515 N. Alberta St. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Second Harvest Food Bank, 1234 E. Front Ave., Spokane, WA 99202.