Dana Pete Smith

Dana Pete Smith passed away, on July 27, 2022, at home with family. He was 76 at the time of his death.

Dana was born on July 25, 1946, in Spokane Washington to his parents Peter James Smith and Hazel May (Logan) Smith. His family moved from Spokane to Boise when he was 4 years old.

Growing up Dana was extremely active, riding his bicycle throughout the Boise valley making friends wherever he went. There were no strangers to Dana and he was quick to give his friendship, opinion and advice.

He graduated from Lincoln School for special needs children where he had many supportive teachers. His favorite teacher/coach was Jim Nalley, whom he remained in contact with the rest of his life. He also received a Certificate from Boise State College Culinary Arts School and the first Lifetime Alumni Association membership and card from the director Dyke Nalley. He was an avid fan of BSU.

Dana’s work included delivering newspapers at an early age, delivering telegrams for Western Union (on his bike), making door mats for Live Incorporated and many years with Western Idaho Training Company. With WITCO, he worked in the commissary at the Mountain Home Air Force Base and as a custodian at the Boise Federal Building. Dana was proud of his work at the Federal Building and valued the many friendships, support, and encouragement he received from his supervisors, coworkers, and the many employees who took time to be his friend.

Dana was a devoted Catholic and served as a member of the Knights of Columbus (IV Degree). The Church was of great support to Dana through the friendship and encouragement he received from many members. He loved his Lord Jesus and shared that love with others.

Dana was part of a big family and enjoyed birthdays, holidays and BBQs together. His sister, Linda and brother-in-law, Gary, have been a constant support for Dana, including him in family activities and vacations. His favorite vacations were those to Hawaii with his mother before her passing, trips to Nashville to see his niece, Kristin, and trips to Seattle to see his nieces and nephew.

During his final years, Dana’s Alzheimer’s disease progressed to the point where he required 24-hour care. His niece Nicole Elton was devoted to assuring Dana received the best care possible until the end. He was fortunate to have many compassionate caregivers including Pamela Milburn, Helen Rebman, Judith Heath, Tenille Catana, Devyn Valona, Will Hawk and the staff of Encompass Hospice of Idaho and Doctor’s Hospice of Idaho.

Dana is preceded in death by his parents Peter James Smith and Hazel May Smith, brother David H. Smith, sister Chella Diane Smith and nephew Stephen M. Smith.

He is survived by his sisters Linda (Gary) Stivers and, Alice (David) McKee, brother Patrick (Berta Jo) Smith, immediate family Gina (Jeff) Spengler, Nicole (Stuart) Elton, Kristin Dawn Stivers, Tenille (Julian) Catana and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Those wishing to send memorial donations, the family suggests The Knights of Columbus, St. John’s Cathedral, 807 N. 8th St., Boise, ID 83702.