NORMAN STAN SMITH was born April 19, 1919 in Banks, Oregon, the son of William and Wilhemia (Kersten) Smith. He was one of eight children. Norman was raised and received his education in the Banks community, having graduated from Banks High School.
He was a Veteran of World War II, having served in the United States Army Air Corps. He served in the Pacific Theatre as a flight engineer and top gunner. Norman served for one enlistment until receiving his discharge at the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Norman was united in marriage to Geneva A. Asher Kemper on September 27, 1952 at Verboort, Oregon. Following their marriage they made their home in Forest Grove for four years until 1956 when they moved to Banks. Norman was preceded in death by his wife, Geneva, on December 29, 1989, after celebrating over thirty-seven years of marriage.
Following his discharge from the service, Norman worked in the lumber industry for several years, having worked as a broker for Girard's Lumber Company in North Plains. From 1952 to 1960, Norman operated the Red, White & Blue Store in Banks. In 1960, he bought the Big Chief Grocery Store in Banks and ran it for twelve years until 1972 when he retired.
He was a member of the Roman Catholic faith, having attended Visitation Parish in Verboort. Norman was also a member of the Cornelius Eagles Lodge Aerie #4177.
Among his interests, Norman enjoyed golfing and traveling, especially taking trips to Reno and the beach. He also loved baseball and had attended the World Series in 1950.
He was also preceded in death by his parents and five sisters.
Norman passed away March 10, 2002 at his home in Banks. He is survived by a daughter and her companion, Tammy Smith and Larry Bryant of Banks, Oregon; a stepson and his wife, Monte A. and Lucrisha Kemper of Banks, Oregon; two brothers, Joe Smith of Beaverton, Oregon; and Ervin Smith of Forest Grove, Oregon; four grandchildren and their spouses, Tammy and Art Gonzalez of Forest Grove, Oregon; Norman and Kimberley Kemper of Banks, Oregon; Sarah Smith of Banks, Oregon; and Ranee' Smith of Vancouver, Washington; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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The family suggests that remembrances may be contributions to the Banks Fire Department, 300 S. Main Street, Banks, Oregon 97106, in his memory.