Dexter "Dex" S. Smith

Dexter “Dex” Smith, 76, of Baileys Harbor, WI passed away peacefully after a battle with lung cancer on January 31, 2025 at his home. Born on January 2, 1949 in Bloomington, IL he was the son of Don and Eugenia Smith.

Dex proudly served as radio operator in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was honored with several medals, including a Bronze Star.

Dex was a retired business owner of a successful paint company, Don Smith Paint Co., which was originally started by his father, Don. The father and son owned the company for a combined 64 years. Dex was deeply respected by his employees, serving as both a supportive boss and a trusted friend, and he forged lifelong friendships with many customers. He was also a known expert in the art of paint matching.

He found joy in casting a line at his favorite fishing locations throughout Door County, reading on his kindle, bringing music to life at the piano, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and spending time with family and loyal companion, Bentley. He could often be found relaxing in his lawn chair in the front driveway, engaging in friendly conversations with passing neighbors. Well known and loved by many, his sense of humor brought joy to those around him with his lighthearted jokes.

Dex is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Lauri Smith; children, Justin (Missy) Smith, Ashly Smith, Stacey (Corey) Sharp, and Ryan (Jayla) Willis; grandchildren, Cameron (Taylor) Smith, Gabrielle Sharp, Landon Smith, Cassius Sharp, and Aspen Smith; great-grandchildren, Tatum Altes and Lydia Smith; siblings, Sharon Abbott, Timothy Smith, Jeff Smith, and Cha Smith. He is preceded in death by his father and mother.

Dex’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Dex chose cremation as part of his wishes, and a celebration of life will be held April 30, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Davis Lodge at Lake Bloomington, in Hudson, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Unity Hospice at unityhospice.org/donate or can be mailed to Unity Hospice, 2366 Oak Ridge Circle, De Pere, WI 54115.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dex’s Unity Hospice caregivers, Amanda, Jessica, and Katie, for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time.

Arrangements have been entrusted with Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sister Bay, WI. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Dex may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.

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