James Lewis Smith

James Lewis Smith, age 89, passed away at home in the midst of physical activity, as he would have wanted. Jim was born in the doctor's office in Naches, Wa on August 4th, 1934. His family moved to Heppner Oregon when he was four, where his father was a new partner in the lumber mill. Jim was quarterback of the football team, student body president, and valedictorian. From there he attended Stanford University where he was president of the Cardinals. It was here he met his wife of 68 years, Marky Daniel. They married on October 15, 1956. Jim had to report to the Navy Air in Pensacola, Florida, shortly thereafter. Jim loved to fly and was an active pilot from age 17-80 flying throughout the US and Mexico. After leaving the Navy, he and Marky returned to Seattle where Jim founded Heath Lighting. This grew into Heath NW sign co. which eventually grew to the largest sign company in the Northwest with five locations and 150 employees. During this time, Jim and Marky were blessed with two children, Jamie Smith (Bertoli), and Mark Smith. Jim sold Heath in 1987 and started J.L. Smith company, where he worked in the commercial real estate business with his son Mark. Jim was very active in the Yakima community and volunteered his time to many different organizations. He was president of Stanford Alumni in the Northwest, president of the NW sign association, on the board of the national electric sign association, president of Yakima downtown rotary, president of United Way Yakima, and finally, president of the board of Heritage University. Jim's favorite life was outdoors. He loved boating, ranging from Glacier Bay, Alaska to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. He loved to hunt and fish, which he did all over the world. He was most happy with one of his many hunting dogs roaming the hills of Yakima looking for Chukars. He was an avid hiker, mountain biker, skier, and took up golf in his later years. Jim was a fabulous father(2), grandfather(6), and great grandfather(5). When Jamie and Mark were young, Jim and Marky took them out of school for a year for an educational trip around the world. They also served as the swim coaches for the Yakima YMCA Swim Team. The family had many wonderful adventures growing up together. When Jim was 65 years old, he joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was a faithful member for the rest of his life serving in a number of callings. Jim's great example and zest for life will be remembered by many. He was known for his leadership and generosity to his fellow man. He legacy will live on and he will be missed. Jim is survived by his wife, Marky, Daughter, Jamie (John) Bertoli, son,Mark (Cherie) Smith, and grandchildren, Charles Bertoli, Sarah (Ryan) Williams, Scott (Sheraden) Smith, Nicole Smith, Ty Smith, and Michael Smith. There will be a viewing on Friday June 28 at 11:00 and services at 12:00 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 4307 Englewood Ave in Yakima. Burial will be at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. Reception will follow at the Yakima YMCA on 40th Avenue. To share a memory for his family please visit keithandkeith.com