Alfred G. Smith of Shelton, Wash., passed away peacefully on February 10, 2007. While Al has passed, his sense of humor and charisma will continue to live large.

Al was born in Pueblo, Colorado, on May 7, 1925. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Kay; son Steve of Shelton; daughters Terri VanVleck of SeaTac, Candy Fitzpatrick (Roger) of Port Orchard, and Pam Whitworth (Mark) of North Vancouver, B.C.; six grandchildren, Sean and Marcus VanVleck, Gillian and Jaclyn Fitzpatrick, and Sam and Max Whitworth; and one great-granddaughter, Halley VanVleck. His sisters, Lena Scott (Ernie) of Renton and Edith Scott of Bellevue, and numerous nephews and nieces also survive Al. He was preceded in death by sisters Barbara York and Florence Peterson.

Al enjoyed woodworking, playing cards, coaching and watching baseball, gardening, square dancing, making his family laugh, and teasing his grandchildren and great grandchild. He will be dearly remembered for his love of games and ability to motivate others. From horseshoe tournaments and card championships to the "Lost Lake Olympics," Al was the organizing force behind most of the fun-filled neighborhood competitions.

He served in World War II in the U.S. Navy and saw action at Iwo Jima, and later joined the Naval Reserves as a Chief Petty Officer from 1962-66. Al spent most of his career building houses, prior to working in insurance. Al and Kay raised their children in the Burien and Des Moines area before retiring in Shelton.

Mass was celebrated at St. Edwards Catholic Church on Feb. 15. He was interred at Tahoma National Cemetery on Feb. 16.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Providence Home Health Care and Hospice, 2146 E. Railroad Ave., Shelton, WA 98594.