Vernon J. Smith

McFARLAND- Vernon J. Smith left his earthly life on July 1st, 2007 at the Anderson Hospice Center in Fitchburg. He died of a reoccurrence of lung cancer. He was born 5/11/21 in Tomahawk, WI and was the son of Peter and Mary (Salinski) Smith. He attended Tomahawk schools where the nuns impressed upon him the importance of fine handwriting, which he exhibited all through his life. During his high school years he was involved in drama, music and was the drum major of his high school band. These interests led to lifelong hobbies including an appreciation for opera, fine art and theater. His high school summers included work at the Shady Rest Resort where he met and fell in love with the owner’s daughter, Eugenia. They married in October of 1941, just before he left as a member of the US Air Force. Upon his return from active duty, he attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where he ultimately received a Master’s Degree in Speech and Language Education. While working on his Doctorate, he was offered a position with the Department of Public Instruction as the state supervisor of Speech and Language for Children with Disabilities. Traveling throughout the state, visiting small towns and learning their histories, became the beginning of his love of antiques and his collection was admired by family and friends. He retired from his DPI position after 35 years. It was a position he loved and brought him great satisfaction for the work he did as well as the professional and personal friends he made. As a lifelong learner, Vern enjoyed numerous hobbies. He was a master chef, loved flowers, antiques, Great Dane dogs, good coffee, crossword puzzles, cryptoquotes, fine art and learning from his grandchildren. He loved his Polish heritage and was a collector of Polish ceramics and glass. His Great Danes have been named Stashu, Polski I and Polski II, and Kasha, who survives Vern. His caretakers at the Hospice Center as well as his clinic and hospital staff quickly recognized his dry wit and sense of humor as a special characteristic of this one-of-a-kind gentleman. His collection of T Shirts entertained many, in fact, on the last day of his life, he was wearing his “Cancer Sucks” T-shirt. Among his special medical support were Dr. Sharon Stake, Dr. McMahon, Dr. Augelli, (UW Health) Dr. DeVries, Dr. Igec,(Wisconsin Heart) as well as Dr. Schiller and her staff at the UW Comprehensive Cancer Center. Thanks also to Dr. Ford (UWHC) and the Hospice Medical Directors: Dr.’s Rock, Weston and Green and their entire HCI Inpatient Staff. Vern is survived by his wife of 64 years, Eugenia (Geni) and four children; Craig (family: Pat, Tia and Tyler); Carter (family: Deborah, Morgan, Grant, Scott (Beth and Maddi); Terryl (family: Tom and Brock); Kevin, (family: Peggy, Abbey, Gweni) and pets, Kasha and Mr. Black. At Vern’s request, a private family gathering will be held to celebrate his life. Although he loved flowers, he requested any memorials be sent to HospiceCare Inc., 5395 East Cheryl Parkway, Madison, 53711. Also, a scholarship will be established in his name at McFarland High School where he helped work to establish a high school district in the 60’s. His son, Carter, was in the first graduating class and his wife, Eugenia, was instrumental as a designer of costumes and sets for Gene Olson and the celebrated High School drama department.