In Memory: Stanley “Bud” Smith ’50

Stanley “Bud” Smith ’50 died Jan. 2, 2019, at age 94. He was immediately drafted into the Army following his high school graduation, and was selected for special training at the University of Pennsylvania's school of engineering. However, as the army needed more soldiers, he repeated his second round of basic training and was subsequently sent to Europe. He went to the European theatre of WWII through France, the Low Countries, and Germany. On Nov. 29, 1944, his company was captured and he suffered a gunshot wound in his left shoulder, earning him a Purple Heart. He was then captured by the German Army, but managed to escape back to the American lines. He was honorably discharged in 1946. 

He attended Pacific and graduated with a degree in business administration with a minor in mathematics. He met his wife Eleanor Finegan through work, and the two were married on Sept. 12, 1953. They adopted two children. He worked at Litton Industries for 25 years until his retirement, then was offered the vice president position of a mortgage banking corporation where he worked for an additional three years. 

He was a devoted husband and father, always making others laugh. He attended Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Salem, Ore., and was a member of the Salem Rotary. He enjoyed music, playing bridge, and traveling. 

He was preceded in death by his wife 58 years, Eleanor; siblings, Frances Vuylsteke, Clara Beckwith, Wilma Hoover, Helen Vuylsteke, William (and Sam), Gen Howell, Lucille Downer, and Mildred (and Mick) Patterson. He is survived by his children, Gregory and Susan (and Robert) Heenk; and three grandchildren.