Smith_Franklin_24 June 1912
Franklin Edward Smith, 1912-2009. Franklin Edward Smith, devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away May 16, 2009 at his home in Sandy, Utah of natural caused related to age. He was 96 years old. Frank was greatly loved by his family and all who knew him. He was a kind man known for his dedication to family and friends, his generosity and his great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.
Frank was born in Cache Junction, Utah on June 24, 1912. He was born to Edward E. and Phoebe May Weaver Smith. He moved with his family to Malad, Idaho in 1922, where he completed grade school and graduated from Malad High School in 1930. He attended the University of Idaho from 1930-35, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Infantry Reserve.
He fell in love with and married his high school sweetheart, Nettie Pierce on June 29, 1937. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on July 18, 1957. They had three children: Douglas Pierce Smith, Phyllis Smith and Bruce Lee Smith. He worked for the Idaho Bureau of Highways from 1935-40. Then, Frank’s military service took him and his family to many different places. They lived in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Mexico, much of it in conjunction with the Manhattan Project. After his military service, he and his family settled in Boise in 1947, where he worked for the Bureau of Highways and then two construction contractors. In 1949 he began working for the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (A.E.C.) and moved his family to Idaho Falls in 1950, where he continued working at the A.E.C. until 1972, then for Arrington Construction for five years. He was active in several state and national engineering societies, serving in various offices and as a member of the Idaho Board of Engineering Examiners for over 15 years. He was a Licensed Professional Engineer since 1937. He was active in the Boy Scout program for over 50 years. He was an Eagle Scout and a Silver Beaver. He was a member of the LDS Church and served in many positions in branches, wards and stakes. He was an officiator at the Idaho Falls Temple for 15 years.
He enjoyed being with Nettie, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much. He enjoyed genealogical research and telling stories about his pioneer ancestors; he loved “home repair” projects and gardening. He and Nettie had a beautiful rose garden and a lovely vegetable garden and delighted in sharing with neighbors and friends.
Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Nettie, son Douglas Pierce Smith, baby daughter, Phyllis; sisters, LaBlanche and Verrell, and brothers: John, David, and Nathan. He is survived by son, Bruce and daughter-in-law Jan Smith, Murray; daughter-in-law Carol Smith, Murray; 10 grandchildren and their spouses: Jeff and Melissa Smith, Provo; Liz and Mike Mower, Murray; David Smith, Murray; Jennifer and Jeff Crane, Lehi; Lori and Nate Walnum, Phoenix AZ; Sarah and Jason Dunn, Taylorsville; Robert and Karin Smith, Taylorsville; Greg Smith, San Salvador, El Salvador; Richard Smith, Taylorsville; Alison Smith, Murray. He is also survived by 16 great-grandchildren.
Services as follows: Viewing: Wednesday, May 20th 6:30-8 p.m., Jenkins-Soffe, 4760 South State St., Murray, UT; Viewing: Thursday, May 21st 6:30-8 p.m. Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Ave., Idaho Falls, ID; Funeral Services, Friday, May 22nd 11 a.m. at 24th Ward, 1155 1st St.; Viewing one hour prior to services.