Donald Lee Smith

Donald Lee Smith, 80, of Highlands Ranch, CO and Scottsdale, AZ, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loving family, on Sunday, September 8, 2013. Don was passionately devoted to his wife of 60 years, his lifelong ""bride"", Natalie. He was extremely proud of his children, Brad (Sandra) Smith, Natalie (E.K.) Gaylord, Derek (Ritta) Smith, and Greg (Rise') Smith, and also his grandchildren, Tony, Madeleine, Bradley, E.L., E.K., Derek, Grant, Nick, Matthew, Lily and Natalie. He is also survived by his brother, Cecil (Marge) Smith. Don was a Marine, a focused, driven man who achieved success first as an accountant, then a company president, then builder and developer in the Denver area. Even in his retirement, he was continually occupied with various real estate ventures and worked harder than most men half his age. His time was also spent with his favorite dog, Gator, feeding him ice cream off a spoon, cheering for the Broncos, and arguing with television political commentators. Don's life was packed with energy and achievement, family travel, laughter, and love. Although he is now dancing in heaven, he has left an unfillable space in the hearts of all who held him dear. He was valiant and true to the end. Memorial Service Wednesday, September 25, 11:00am, Cherry Hills Community Church Chapel, 3900 Grace Blvd., Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Memorial contributions in Don's honor may be sent to The Alzheimer's Association, 455 Sherman St., Suite 500, Denver, CO 80203, or www.alz.org or Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Please share your memories of Don and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.