Eugene Douglas Smith

Eugene Douglas Smith (Smitty), age 79, passed away on April 28, 2026. Smitty was born on September 5, 1946, in Reno, Nevada, to Douglas and Margaret Smith.

He was a proud 1964 graduate of Tahoe Truckee High School in Truckee, California, and later earned his business degree from Bowling Green State University in 1978. That same year, he married the love of his life Diane Wilkie, beginning a beautiful 47-year marriage filled with love, partnership, and family.

Smitty began his career in the music industry where he traveled across the country as a Road Manager for the band Fuze. He then returned to Sacramento, California where he worked as a controller of Skip's Music. In 1991, he returned to Sylvania, Ohio, where he continued his strong work ethic as a driver for UPS until his retirement in 2016.

Smitty had a deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He loved cheering on his favorite teams - the San Francisco 49ers, Sacramento Kings, and San Francisco Giants. He also loved traveling to new places with his family, from camping trips and beach vacations to, in later years, venturing abroad and embracing new cultures and experiences. He enjoyed following the stock market and would keep up with it daily, appreciating the strategy and excitement it offered.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Diane Wilkie Smith; his sister, Kai (Jerry) Jorgensen; his brother, Rick (Jackie) Smith; and their four children; Nathan (Anna) Smith, Adam (Lauryn) Smith, Patrick Smith, and Kendall Smith, along with four wonderful grandchildren, whom he adored. Eugene was not only a loving father and grandfather, but also a constant and enthusiastic presence in his children's lives. He was their biggest supporter and most dedicated cheerleader, rarely missing a game, event, or milestone. Whether on the sidelines or in the stands, he took immense pride in encouraging his children in all their pursuits.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Olivet Lutheran Church from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a service at noon.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their compassion and care.

Those wishing to make a donation may consider Olivet Lutheran Choir or Hospice of Northwest Ohio.