Quechee, Vermont

Owen Leighton Smith, 86, went to heaven on December 7, 2013.

He was born June 6, 1927 in Westbrook, ME to Vena L and Robert A. Smith. He was Valedictorian at Westbrook High School class of 1945. Upon graduation, he entered the US Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY, Graduating in 1948, He sailed with Gulf Oil Co until 1950. While a plebe cadet, at the academy, he met Rosemary Sammis of Port Washington, NY, that "blind date" turned in to sixty three years of very happy marriage beginning in 1950. They had one son James R Smith who passed away in 1999.

In 1951 he joined the US Navy, spending two years as Chief Engineering Officer on a destroyer escort. Upon discharge he was employed by Sperry Gyroscope Co in Great Neck, NY. He was forced to retire in 1978 due to poor health. At that time he moved to Quechee, VT.

He is survived by his beloved wife Rosemary; and his brother-in-law John B. Sammis of Winter Park, FL whom he was very fond of. Owen will be remembered fondly by his many friends especially at the Quechee Visitors Center where he was a travel consultant for many years. At his request he will be cremated and buried at a later date, in the Hilltop Cemetery in Quechee. Owens wishes were that there be no services.

Owen was an avid reader and in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Quechee Library, Po Box 389 Quechee, VT 05059.

Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction has been entrusted with arrangements.