Donald Hugh Smith of Morris Plains NJ and formally from Minneapolis Minnesota, died in his home with his family by his side on 12/14/2015 at the age of 93. Born November 25, 1922 in Minneapolis, MN who was the son of Raymond Clarence Sr and Olive Augusta Steele also of Minneapolis Minnesota.
After completing his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota, and his master’s degree from Stevens Institute of Technology, he retired from Bell Telephone Laboratories in Whippany NJ after 40 years of service.
He became a member of Kappa Eta Kappa in 1942 and served in the U S Army during WW II . In 1965 he was admitted to the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. His deep connection and love of music inspired him to learn and play the cello and become an active member of the Livingston Symphony Orchestra, serving as President & Trustee in 1991. He also played cello in a string quartet. He had a passion for the railroad industry and was the President of Rail Car Classics of America Inc. He owned a Pullman sleeper car named the Imperial Sands, that he would enjoy riding and sponsoring rides.
He is survived by his son Mark Osborn Smith of Lawrenceville NJ, and 2 daughters; Lori Ann Fernandez of Lancaster PA and Carolyn Louise Smith of Mine Hill NJ. He is also survived by his granddaughters; Melissa Louise Barzola of Lancaster PA and Kylie Bryn Smith of North Carolina.
Friends may visit at the Davis & Hepplewhite Funeral Home, 96 Main Street, Succasunna, (973-584-7264) (www.davishepplewhitefh.com) on Saturday 11 – 1 pm. His interment will follow at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN, on Monday, December 21st. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Music Den in Randolph to bring the joy of music to children in need.