William Robert Smith

A memorial was held in Gardnerville on Monday for Carson Valley resident and Navy veteran William Robert Smith, who died April 29, 2010.

Born Sept. 25, 1926, in Sioux City, Iowa to Roland and Faye Smith, he joined the Navy at age 17 and in 1962 retired after 20 years of military service.

He served aboard ships in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam.

After he retired, Mr. Smith, his wife Darlene and their children settled at Lake Tahoe and moved to Carson Valley in 1972.

He worked in several casinos in the area including Harvey's, the Carson Nugget, Gary's Casino, where he was part owner, and the Carson Valley Inn.

Mr. Smith was an avid golfer, loved everything about flying owning several planes and although a lifelong Giants fan he was passionate about disagreeing with decisions made by all Giants managers.

He and Darlene also spent a lot of time at Carson Valley Inn and thought of many of the employees as extended family.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 63 years Darlene; son Michael, daughter Kathy and their families.

The family asks that everyone take a moment to remember his kindness.