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Dean W. Smithson
Dean was born in Des Moines where he lived for 50+ years, and lived all his life in the Des Moines area. He was a chemist for Delavan Manufacturing; he worked for Smouse School, and most recently for West Des Moines schools as a crossing guard. He also served in the U.S. Navy. Dean was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, was a past Master of Gnemeth Masonic Lodge #577 and was also secretary of the Lodge for many years, was a member of Valley Junction Order of the Eastern Star #505, and was a shriner. He also played the tuba in Des Moines Municipal Band. He liked to bake, pies were his specialty, and was a great storyteller. He is survived by his wife, Marjolaine (Trochuck) Smithson of West Des Moines, they were married in 1949; son, Jerry W. Smithson of West Des Moines; daughter, Sharon Parker of San Jose, CA; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister Myrna Ruten. Visitation is today from 5 to 7:30 p.m. with a Masonic Service at 7:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to his church or Gnemeth Masonic Lodge. |
Dean W. Smithson, 87, died July 11, 2005 at Iowa Methodist Medical Center due to pneumonia. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, July 14 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 600 6th Street, Des Moines, with burial at Resthaven Cemetery.