Patrick Jerome Smith, formerly of Albert Lea, departed this life on earth the morning of Tuesday, May 18, 2004 in Waynesville, Mo., Pulaski County, at the age of 57 years and 10 months.

Memorial services and military honors were held at the Richland Memorial Chapel at Richland, Mo., on Monday, May 24.

Pat was born on July 18, 1946, one of six children born to the union of the late Ambrose (Hap) and Florence (Neist) Smith in Albert Lea. As an infant, Pat was baptized into the Holy Catholic Church. He was raised in Albert Lea, graduating from ALHS in 1964. Although he did not return to his hometown often, it was in his thoughts and he keep up to date with what was happening in Albert Lea. He really enjoying reading his friend Dick Herfindahl’s weekly sports column.

Pat enlisted in the U.S. Navy on July 8, 1964, serving his country until April 21, 1971. While in the Navy, he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), the Vietnam Service Medal (five Vietnam tours) with two bronze stars, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal and the President Unit Citation. He served on the destroyer U.S.S. Robinson.

Patrick married Gloria Bennett in Artesia, Calif., on April 29, 1972. They resided their entire marriage in California until they moved to Missouri in February 2004 where they were in the process of building a new home. Pat and Gloria raised two of their nieces, Linda and Gloria Smith, and had one son, Joseph.

Pat will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by his wife, Gloria, of 32 years; and son, Joseph (Susan) and their children: Andrew, Jacob and Rebekah, all of Ventura, Calif. Also special survivors are his special nieces and their families: Linda (Commander Steve) Hudson, their children, Zachary, Quin, Nolan, Darby and Colon, all of Arnold, Md.; and Sergeant Gloria (Kevin) Bransdor and their children, Angelique and Eric, of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. Four brothers, all living in Minnesota, are; Charles (Carol), James, Raymond, and Dennis (Keiko); mother-in-law, Mrs. Bennett; brother-in law, George Bennett; sister-in-law, Rose; and numerous nieces and nephews. Missing Pat also will be his doggie friend and pal, Skippy.

He was preceded by the death of his parents: Hap in 1976, and Florence in 1988; and sister, Linda, in 1958.

The Rev. John Groner officiated the service. Songs were: “I Was Born Under A Wandering Star,&uot; &uot;I’m Just A Cowboy,” and “The Cowboy Rides Away.” Pat’s wife, Gloria and his children shared memories. Serving as honorary escorts were: Angelique Bransdor, Eric Bransdor, Kevin Bransdor, Dale Lee, Loni McCartney and Susan Smith.

The U.S. Navy and Richland American Legion Post 240 provided military honors. Private interment at a later date at the Resurrection Cemetery, Richland, Mo.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: Gloria Smith C/O of Dale & Dianne Lee, 26200 Highway W, at Waynesville, MO 65583.