Donald James Smith

Donald James Smith, 58, of Polson passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on Saturday, May 21.

Don was born to Allen Luther and Lucille Theresa Smith on January 25, 1953 in Polson. Don attended school in Polson and spent his whole life there.

Don was married to “Barbara Jane,” his loving bride for 24 years. Don had two children from his first marriage Todd James and Lindsay Nichole. Barbara brought two children to the family Shawn and Dana.

Don owned Beacon Tire for 29 years, Beacon Tire will celebrate its 30th anniversary this August.

As a child, Don was full of life, fun and mischief! In his younger years he spent much of his time racing stock cars and performing their maintenance. He enjoyed boating, water skiing and playing at the lake. Besides his family, Don’s greatest love was shooting trap; weekend shoots, league or practice — he loved it all. In 2005, Don made the Montana All State Team. When Don was not trap shooting he loved to travel, golf, four-wheel, card parties, bowling, learning to fly and fish with his love and buddy Barbara Jane.

Don never met a stranger and wherever he went he made time to stop and tell a story or a joke. He valued being part of the Polson community, serving through the school board, city council and was a member of the Elk’s Club.

Don encouraged his kids to live with integrity, be honest and “always be able to take care of yourself.” He often said to “his bride,” if I die tomorrow, there isn’t anything that I missed out on doing.

Don was preceded in death by his father Allen in 1996 and his Aunt Jane Ryan in 2010.

Don is survived by his wife Barbara Jane, sons Todd (Rebecca) Smith, Shawn (Michelle) Connell, daughters Lindsay (Billy) Fisher, and Dana Connell; his grandchildren Teran and Robert Smith, Portia Perkins, Cordon and Denim Howard, Steven, Jack, and Elizabeth Connell, Michael Naterlin, Antonio Hoa and Ramsay and Delaynee Fisher; mother Lucille; brothers Ken (Lora) Smith, Al (Beth) Smith and Bill (Vicki) Smith. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends too numerous to count.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 1947, 304 9th Ave. W., Polson, MT 59860.

Visitation was Tuesday, May 24 at the Grogan Funeral Home in Polson. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 25 at the Linderman Gym in Polson with Pastor Shawn Madsen officiating. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com. The staff of Grogan Funeral Home, Polson, considers it a privilege to care for Don’s family.