William Chrest Smith

William Chrest Smith (Bill) passed away peacefully at home in Bandon, OR  on January 4, 2023 from heart failure.

Bill was born September 28, 1933 to his parents, Clyde and Grace Smith.  He also had an older sister, Ruth Smith Clapper, who preceded him in death.

He graduated from Sedro-Wooley High School in 1951 and joined the US Navy in that same year.  Bill loved the Navy and was proud to serve his country.

He was petty officer first class, interior communications (IC1).  He was decorated for National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), Vietnam Gallantry  Cross and Good Conduct Medal.

He retired from the Navy in 1971 and joined the Fleet Reserve.  He was active in the American Legion and VFW.  He was an avid yacht club member in Oak Harbor, WA.  He loved Taco Tuesday, Karaoke and dancing.  He loved many kinds of music, especially 50’s and 60’s rock and roll and the bagpipes.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Fran Smith of Bandon, OR, his three children, Jacque Hale of Arizona, Susan Johnson of Oak Harbor, WA, Pamela Mynatt of Mesa, AZ; three stepchildren, Dawn Ellington of Illinois, Shawn Reeves of Waitsburg, WA, Will Smith of Tacoma, WA; four grandchildren, Kirk, Johnson, Tiffany Mynatt, Kyle Mynatt and Aaron Hale; four great-grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A military graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, 5977 Northwest Dr., Ferndale, WA  98248.

A celebration of life will take place Sunday, June 25, 2023 at the Bandon VFW Post #3440 from 1-3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to his favorite charities,  the Wounded Warrior Project or ASPCA.

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