Arthur E. Smith

Arthur E. Smith passed away on February 28, 2023 while on an RV trip with friends. Art was born in Honolulu, Hawaii to Robert and Edna Smith on April 20, 1949. His family returned to California in 1952, residing at Oakland Army Base and Fort Ord before settling in San Jose.

Art was a member of Lynbrook High's first graduating class in June, 1968. After a summer trip to Europe, Art moved to Ben Lomond and began his life-long career as a firefighter in Cal Fire's Santa Cruz/San Mateo and San Benito/Monterey Ranger Units. He retired as a Fire Captain after 34 years of service.

Art was active in his union, serving as State Finance Director for over 20 years. He was also elected to three terms on the Scotts Valley Fire Protection board of directors, 2004 to 2016, served as scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 604, and was a Scotts Valley Host Lion for several years.

Art loved to travel. Whether it was a cruise, a cross-country RV trip, or a condo stay on a tropical island, he was always excited to go, packed and ready days in advance, and the first one up on travel day.

Art leaves behind his wife Pam, sons Greg (Sarah), and Russell (Lindsey) and grandsons Bodhi, Everest, and Kingston. He is also survived by three brothers Tom (Lee), Rob (Edie), and Jon (Diana).

Say aloha to Art at his celebration of life at 12:00 pm on April 22, 2023 at the Santa Cruz Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Cal Fire Benevolent Foundation or the San Jose Firefighters Burn Foundation.

Published in Press Banner · March 20, 2023