Douglas James Smith

Douglas James Smith

Washington

Douglas James Smith, 68, of rural Washington, died at his home Tuesday morning, August 22, 2023. He was born in Spirit Lake, IA the son of Roy Charles and Betty Jean Biery Smith. Doug grew up in Spirit Lake and attended Spirit Lake schools. He worked in a gas station and at Matuska Taxidermy as a teenager, then started working for Asplundh Tree Service traveling in Iowa and Minnesota before settling in the Washington area, and going to work as a meter reader for Iowa Southern Utilities for 19 years. He then operated his own company, Smith Tree Service, until he retired in 2016 and worked part time for Midwest Tree Service for two years. Doug was an arborist, a craftsman, loved nature, gardening, fishing, his many pets, his Native American heritage and appreciated life in all its forms.

He is survived by his children, Justin Smith (Laura) of Columbus Junction, Iowa, Carrie Smith (Chris) of Letts, Iowa, Matthew Smith (Chelsea) of Chariton, Iowa, and Rose Smith (Carter) of Williamsburg, Iowa; one brother, David Smith (Marla) of Storm Lake, Iowa. He is also survived by his former wives: Robyn, Georgia, and Julie. He was preceded in death by his parents and two infant siblings.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held at Gould Funeral Home in Brighton, Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 10 to 11 A.M., followed by a time of food, fellowship and sharing at Sunset Park. Memorials for Washington County Conservation may be left at the funeral home, or mailed to the family at 2988 Hwy 1, Washington, IA 52353. Gould Funeral Home of Brighton is assisting the family.