Gordon Emery Smith

Gordon Emery Smith, 90, passed away on September 14, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Gordon was born on Feb. 21, 1935, to Arlie and Evelyn (Bergren) Smith in Manchester, Iowa. In the summer of 1954 at the age of 19, Gordon joined the Marine Corp. and was stationed at Camp Pendleton in California. He spent two years in Japan, then returned home to Manchester where he married Geraldine, thus beginning the long love affair. They moved to the base in Jacksonville, Florida spending two more years there where Todd and Julia were born 11 months apart. Returning to Manchester, Gordon worked many years in the life insurance business as a salesman, traveling many miles over dirt roads and was eventually recruited away, working for various insurance companies in Des Moines, Denver, Kansas City, Dallas and Rapid City, S.D. The last 17 years of his career in Rapid City his new passion was financial planning and services. Though not ready to retire at age 66, his business was so successful, he had three offers to purchase his business.

Gordon had many hobbies including antiquing, cars, singing, golf, board and card games, and pickleball (always reminding the new generation that he and his buddies have been playing since the 1970s!). Most loved was his various sizes of RVs, traveling thousands of miles to visit family and friends. He was a friend to all including the foe. His heart of hearts besides his beloved Geraldine was helping and lending a hand to anyone he came in contact with, and most importantly sharing the message and testimony of the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Gordon is survived by his wife, Geraldine Smith; his children, Todd Smith (Kim) and Julia (Jerry) Talerico; his four grandchildren; six great -grandchildren; and his brother, Carter.

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Leland; and sisters, Arleen and Wanda.

Family will be greeting friends from 10:00 am to 11:00am on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Hamilton's on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines with the memorial service immediately following at 11:00 a.m. The family would like to invite guests to the luncheon following the service.

Memorial contributions can be made to Todd's dog rescue via the following ways: personal check to Todd Smith or Paypal: Todd Smith@ ToddStephenSmith or Venmo: @ToddSmith1957

“Semper Fi”

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