It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Henry "Hank" ‘Dutch’ Smith. Fondly known as Dutch, Hank was born on June 29, 1931, and gracefully departed this life on July 1, 2025.

Hank is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Suzan (Sue) Smith, whom he married in 1974. His legacy lives on through his children, Robert (Connie) Smith, Linda (Bob) Brown , Doris Smith and Bill (Marcie) Smith, his stepchildren, Brad Royce, and Leanne Wilson, as well as his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Hank was predeceased by his parents Mary and Henry William Smith, daughter Cindy Sternhagen and her daughter Samantha, and step-son, Charles Royce Jr. Hank was the last remaining sibling of 8 children.

Known for his wit and social charm, Hank easily made friends in any gathering. His generosity knew no bounds, he was always the life of the party, and he always made sure those around him were comfortable and having a good time. An active person, Hank created his own unique exercise routine with a homemade arm-wrestling weighted pulley. Hank was a skilled mechanic, carpenter, and general "fix-it" guy. He had done two massive home remodels. He was constantly fixing cars for family or friends. He even made his own parts on occasion. He was an inventor and had an engineer's mind but without the formal training. A lover of good music, Hank favored the tunes of Pink Floyd and Joe Walsh, or anything that he could dance to. His love of music led him to invest in quality Hi-Fi stereo equipment and he even installed a dance floor in the basement he finished. He also loved cinema, with Airplane, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, and Blazing Saddles topping his list of favorite movies. The love of movies and music came together for him when he purchased an early surround sound system, bringing the theater experience into his home. And there was nothing like a good cup of coffee to start Hank’s day. If only he could find his damn coffee mug.

Hank had many passions and hobbies. He was an aviation enthusiast. He loved to visit museums or air shows. He built model planes and spent countless hours working on miniature remote controlled planes.

Hank’s legacy is not just his remarkable family, but also the warmth, love, and laughter he shared with them and others during his wonderful life.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Hank’s life. A celebration will be held on July 12, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, at The American Legion Post 38. Let us gather and remember a man whose life was unique and full of laughs.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/henry-hank-smith/obituary/

Copy