SMITHSON, Horace John

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ September 5, 2010 Horace John Smithson died peacefully into the arms of our Lord Sept. 25, 2010 in Camp Verde. He was born Oct. 29, 1925, in Woodruff. He served his country in the US Navy during WWII, as did three of his brothers and one of his sisters. He loved his country, and his family is so proud of his service. After a lifelong career with APS, he retired in Oct. 1980 and was then free to enjoy the beautiful Arizona outdoor activities with his wife, children and grandchildren. He and his wife enjoyed 64 wonderful years together and have provided their family with a lifetime of love and priceless memories. His children will always remember the fun of dutch oven cooking, blanket rides, taffy pulls, the dancing paper doll, playing the harmonica on road trips, camping, fishing, hunting and "the big ditch." His grandchildren always talk about their happy summers in Woodruff, Fourth of July celebrations, great camping trips and so much more. Besides being a supportive father, a devoted husband and a supportive grandfather, Horace was a true and loyal friend. He was generous with his time, always had a kind word, and we could always count on him for a good joke. Horace is survived by his wife, Jean (Higgins); sons: Ronald (Jared David), Robert (Rhonda May), daughters Karen (Bob Sellers), Gaylene (Allen), 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Lorena (Weech); father Dennis Estelven; brothers: Layne, Onzel, Fred, Dan, sisters: Ina, Amber and Ola. Horace's life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 11 a.m. Oct. 9, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 360 5th St. in Camp Verde. A luncheon will be served following the service