Carl Wendell Smith

Carl W. Smith passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024. Carl is survived by his wife Laine, brother George, daughter Allison Foster, son-in-law Bob Foster, grandson William Foster, and son-in-law Steve Smith. He was preceded in death by his daughter Stephanie, brother Paul, and sister Charlotte.

Carl was born in Kilgore, Texas, but spent most of his early years in Paola, Kansas. He graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in civil engineering and business. He was an avid KU sports fan until his last day. Carl especially loved watching KU basketball, whether live at the Phog or yelling at the team through the TV. Carl also met his wife Laine at KU, and they were married in 1965.

Carl and his family moved to Colorado Springs in 1973. He worked for GE Johnson for many years, until he formed Hughes/Smith Construction with his business partner, Bruce Hughes. Carl eventually took over as sole owner and president of Hughes/Smith Construction, until he sold the company and retired. Carl was involved in building many schools, commercial, and industrial buildings in the Pikes Peak region, including the Robert M. Isaac Municipal Court building. However, being a dog owner for most of his life, one of his proudest achievements was building the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak region.

Carl continually gave back to many people and organizations in the Colorado Springs community. Most notably, he was an early leader in supporting affordable housing efforts in Colorado Springs through his support and guidance of Greccio Housing. Carl provided decades of service on Greccio's Board of Directors, including time as President. He also served on various committees and helped establish their Emeritus group, where many former board members remain connected to the mission. Carl was instrumental in the success of Greccio's capital campaign to fund a permanent debt-free home for the nonprofit. Completion of this effort in 2016 provided lifetime financial stability for Greccio. Carl's impact will be known and felt for generations to come. He was a committed and highly regarded leader for Greccio, where he made lifelong fans and friends.

In his personal life, Carl adored his grandson and spent many hours fishing with him and listening to his band concerts. In his younger days, he was an avid tennis player and scuba diver. He later developed a passion for golf and spent many hours on the course with his cherished golf buddies. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends at the El Paso Club, where he was a long time member.

To honor Carl's memory, please consider making a donation to Greccio Housing https://www.greccio.org/financial-donations or the Stephanie Smith Memorial Scholarship. https://give.colostate.edu/campaigns/45141/donations/new. Under "additional designations," please scroll down to choose Stephanie Smith Memorial Scholarship in Food Science and Human Nutrition Endowment.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 1:30 pm at Swan-Law Funeral Directors, 501 North Cascade, a reception will follow at the El Paso Club, 30 E Platte Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.