David D. Smith

ROCHELLE, IL ~ David D. Smith, age 90, died suddenly at his Rochelle Home on Monday, December 1, 2025. He was born on January 22, 1935, in Dixon, IL, the son of Frank & Blanche (Knicely) Smith. In the late 1940s his family moved to the Oregon, IL area and he went on to graduate from Oregon Community School District in 1953. Later on in the 1950s he joined the United States Military and proudly served his country, traveling to several different states like Washington and Alaska. David loved to travel, he would often just get in the car and drive without truly knowing what his destination might be. He loved his cars as well, admiring the craftsmanship. He spent a lot of time in his younger years farming; he very much enjoyed his time spent working the land. Later on in life he settled down, finding jobs at Kable Printing of Mt. Morris, the Rochelle Printing Company, and finally at Northern Illinois University in their maintenance department. Throughout his life, David loved doing things that meant he could spend time with his family, whether it be playing cards or going fishing he would spend time with his family. He also loved watching the Brewers, Cubs and Packers games whenever he could. After his retirement he could often be found at the Rochelle VFW or the Rochelle Senior Center spending time with friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Frank & Blanche, sisters Alice Downs, Francis Jefferson, Linda Walters, and his good friend Gary Howlett. David is survived and missed dearly by his loving sister Susan Morales of Sharon, WI; good friend Paul Erikson; and many other dear friends and many special nieces and nephews.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at a later time. David will be laid to rest, following private family services, alongside his parents at Riverview Cemetery of Oregon, IL. In lieu of flowers David’s family asks that you make a donation in his name to either the Rochelle VFW or the Rochelle Senior Center, both places being very dear to David’s heart.