David E. “Smitty” Smith, 73, of Sheldon passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at his home. He was born on October 1, 1948 in Kankakee, the son of Don and Irene Smith. He married Linda Buchta in Morgan County, MO on June 16, 1983 and she preceded him in passing on December 18, 2008.

Surviving are three children, Joel (Dawn) Cartier of Denver, CO, Christian Sansom of St. Louis, MO, and Theresa Wright of St. Louis, MO; eight grandchildren; and twelve great grandchildren.

David was preceded in passing by his parents; wife, Linda; brother, Hal Smith; and a half-sister, Joyce (Smith) Wall.

Mr. Smith served in the United States Marine Corp. during Vietnam. Dave was a member of the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron VMFA-214 The Black Sheep. He was a biker, builder, artist, and motorcycle mechanic. David was a devoted husband and father. He was an equally talented and ornery individual that will be greatly missed.

Cremation rites are being handled by Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at Iroquois Memorial Park in Watseka. Graveside military rites will be accorded. A reception will take place following the service at 2:00 pm at The Porky Barn in Watseka.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Semper Fi Fund.