Eugene Smith

On May 21, 2024, Eugene Preece Smith of Tremonton, Utah peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family at the age of 87 in Ogden, Utah at McKay Dee Hospital. Born on April 3, 1937, in Cove, Utah to LeRoy and Lona Preece Smith, Eugene's life was one filled with dedication and love.
 
 Eugene's journey of love began after dating and being together before he left on his mission. After many love letters exchanged when on his mission, they reunited their love when he married Ann Whitman Smith on May 29, 1963, in Morgan, Utah. Their union was later solemnized on July 19, 1971, including the sealing of their 5 daughters in the Logan, Utah temple. They made their home in Richmond, Utah. Then made their forever home in Tremonton, Utah for the admirable span of 56 years.
 
 He was a graduate of North Cache High School, where he was very active in the FFA, serving as president his senior year. He was known for showcasing champion cattle and pigs. His pigs were later shown at the State Fair with winning ribbons.  

Eugene served an LDS mission in the Western Canadian area. He later shared his experience with many others and his family by taking them to see where he had served. His service extended beyond his professional endeavors as he proudly served in the National Guard for many years.

He dedicated his working years to a variety of roles including his love of farming, Pet Milk, and Utah Power and Light. He worked for Cleon Summers milking cows. After farming all of his younger years, he enjoyed working for other farmers. He retired from Utah Power and Light in 1999. Eugene left behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.

He had exceptional skills in gardening for his family and shared the bounty with his friends. He loved taking his family on camp outs. He was legendary for his cherished breakfasts by many, especially by his grandchildren. Bacon in his famous waffles for one example.

He loved his trips to the Teton wilderness where him and his cousins would horseback in for a week. Fishing,  where the cousins caught the fish, and he cooked them. They made great memories.
 
 Eugene was actively involved within his community as a member of The Lion’s Club and was President twice. His grandkids enjoyed helping with many things such as assisting in the burger shack and boxing popcorn at events. He enjoyed sharing his love of dancing with the love of his life, his daughters, and granddaughters. He also served faithfully in numerous church callings including bishopric and high councilman roles.

Eugene is survived by his beloved eternal companion of 61 years, Ann Whitman Smith; daughters Kim S. Christenson  (Brent), Angie S. White, Sandra Hall (Tony), Sue Ann Gehrke (Allan), Jean Coburn (Chad); along with 23 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren with two more on their way to be welcomed by their great-grandpa’s teasing affection before their arrival; cherished sisters-in-law Sharon Whitman and Shirley Whitman; and sister Janet May (Gordon).
 
 He now rests peacefully preceded by LeRoy and Lona Smith – his dear parents; Jay and Della Whitman – loving parents-in-law; LaMar Smith (Gerda), Glenn Smith (Roma), Ronald Whitman, Robert Whitman and Raymond Whitman – brothers & their wives who held a special place in Eugene's heart.
 
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 1st at 11 A.M. at the Elwood LDS Church (4865 W 9600 N Elwood, Utah). Viewings will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 from 6:30-8:30 P.M. at Rudd Funeral Home-Tremonton (111 N 100 E Tremonton) and prior to the service at the church from 9:30-10:30 A.M. The funeral service will be livestreamed and can be accessed below. Interment to follow at the Richmond City Cemetery.
 
 A heartfelt gratitude is extended to Hospice care providers along with McKay Dee Hospital for their compassionate support during Eugene’s final days. Special appreciation is also expressed to extraordinary friends and neighbors including Jess, Georgia, Cody, Mary, Joyce and Rosa whose unwavering kindness brought comfort during times of need.

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT PAN THE CROWD AND THE CAMERA IS FIXED UPON THE PULPIT. WE WILL TRY AND LIVESTREAM THE FUNERAL SERVICE. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO DO SO, DUE TO THE INTERNET SERVICE AT THE CHURCH, A RECORDING WILL BE UPLOADED WITHIN 24-48 HOURS AFTER THE SERVICE.