Edward Smith

Edward Claude Smith, 79, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Sept. 23, 2011, when he lost his battle with prostate cancer.

Born Jan. 14, 1932, in Divide County, N.D. to Tiddles Frasier Smith and Petra Helland Smith, Edward spent his youth working on the family farm in Colgan, N.D.

He married his sweetheart Donna Teigen on May 6, 1951. They had two daughters, Linda and Claudia, while still in North Dakota and eventually made their way to Columbia Falls, where they had two more children, Rick and RoxAnn.

Edward worked for Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. for a number of years and Libby Dam for a short time before going to work for Plum Creek, where he continued to work until a back injury forced him to retire. He loved to "tinker" with small motors and was known to many as Fast Eddy. Many hours were spent working in his shop and making new friends. He always had a quick smile and loved a good story.

Edward was preceded in death by his wife Donna and both of his parents.

He is survived by his children Linda Hand and husband Bill, Claudia Dakin and husband Bob, Rick Smith and wife Renae and RoxAnn Smith; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; brothers Ted and Allen Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

He will be missed by all who loved him and all those who knew him.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia Falls on Oct. 8, 2011, at 1 p.m. followed by a potluck at the family home. The family encourages friends to come and share memories and happy thoughts.