Duane L. Smith

Duane Smith, 88, of Rathdrum, Idaho, joined his Father in Heaven on March 7, 2021, after a valiant battle with cancer. He died at home in the presence of his family.

Duane was born in Firth, Idaho, to Violet Jane Fowler and Opal Smith. He lived many of his formative years in Jackson, Wyo., with his Aunt Ruby and Uncle Bill Smith. He married the love of his life, Bertha Jeanne Delbridge, on May 12, 1953. They opened their huge hearts and adopted three children: Pamela Johnson Boehme (Las Vegas), Stephanie Fenenbock (Coeur d’Alene) and Kim Duane Smith (Athol). He and Jeanne lived many years in Granger, Utah, where they raised their children. In 1978, Duane and Jeanne moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he finished out his life.

Duane spent his career as a transportation operator, working many years for PIE in Salt Lake and later for Consolidated Freightways out of Osborne, Idaho. Duane prided himself of his safe driving record and his role as Teamsters Union Steward.

Duane had a strong work ethic and was a dedicated husband and father. He was a solid pillar for his family. He was very charismatic, charming and always had a funny story to tell. He liked people and made friends easily and treated them like family. He was also stubbornly firm and in direct control until the very end. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends until they reunite with him again.

Duane is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne Smith; children, Pamela Johnson Boehme, Stephanie and Dennis Fenenbock, Kim Duane Smith and Pandy Brown; grandchildren, Erik and Jessica Fenenbock, Kyla and Josh Groneman, Aaron Fenenbock, Jarett Johnson, Richelle and Cole Rieben, Adam and Steffany Fenenbock, Braden and Hayley Johnson, Sam Gommel-Smith, Kenneth Smith, Estella Smith, Lillyona Boehme; 12 great-grandchildren; and his sweet pooch, Marley.

Private graveside services were held at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.