D. Cary Smith
D. Cary Smith passed away at the age of 85 on March 7, 2022 in Boise, Idaho.
Cary is survived by daughter Kelley Smith, son Kurtis (Renee) Smith, his German Shepherd dog Gracie, niece Janis Rusev, nephew Dave (Resa) Kallas, nephew Rick (Jenny) Kallas, sister-in-law Rogene (Ron) Evans, brother-in-law Rick (Penny) Campbell, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Beverly, parents Delbert and Josephine Smith, sister Myrna (& Dave) Kallas, in-laws Alvin and Floy Campbell, brother-in-law Leo (& Carol) Campbell, sister-in-law Delpha (& Robert) Van Komen, niece Cindy Van Komen Dean, and nephew Robby Van Komen.
Cary was born on August 7, 1936 at his great grandmother Smith’s house in Ontario, OR. When he was 7 years old the family moved to Baker City, OR where he attended 2 nd through 8 th grades. The family moved to Boise in 1950 and Cary graduated from Boise High School in 1954 and graduated from Boise Junior College in 1956. Cary met Beverly Campbell in Cambridge, Idaho in 1958 while working for Morrison Knudsen during construction of the Hells Canyon dams. Beverly and a friend had a flat tire and were helped by Cary and a friend. Chance would have it that Cary’s job moved to Boise where Beverly had moved, and Cary and Beverly dated and were soon engaged. They married on August 29, 1959 and were married for 60+ years until Beverly’s passing on May 8, 2020.
Cary worked as an accountant and bookkeeper. In addition to working for Morrison Knudsen, he worked for Babbitt Construction and finally for Bob Rice Country for 35+ years.
Cary grew up with musicians and loved playing guitar and singing with his dad’s band, Del Smith and the Rhythm Rounders and later The Rebels. From the 1950’s through the 2000’s, the bands played at grange halls and gatherings all over Southwest Idaho and Eastern Oregon. Later The Rebels played regularly at the Boise Eagles Lodge. Cary loved playing music and making friends when he played.
Cary believed in hard work and education (we heard you, dad). Dad (and mom) reminded us from an early age that we were expected to get good grades, go to college, and to work. And that we were expected to do all of these things at the same time. We are grateful for the example dad and mom lived for us.
Cary was active until the last two months of his life. He lived independently, drove, shopped, and managed his finances. He had a series of health problems starting in January including a stroke. He tried very hard to fight his way back. His mind was strong and clear, but his body was weakened by age. Cary left this earthly home on the morning of March 7, 2022.
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 19, 2022 at 1 p.m. at Whitney Friends Church in Boise.
Thank you to Cary’s healthcare providers at St. Lukes.
Donations in honor of Cary can be made in his name to a charity of your choice.