Daniel Langmuir Smith Passed peacefully in his sleep during the early hours of Independence Day. He had spent the weekend with family celebrating the 4th of July holiday at his second home at Stinson beach. Dan was born at home during a snowstorm in Salem Massachusetts January 17, 1924 to Hugh and Edna Smith. He was a graduate of Spartanburg High School, attended The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, completed his education at the University of California at Berkeley then received his MBA from Stanford University. After graduating from Stanford he became a participant in the Marshall Plan. Shipping out on a slow journey to Europe their ship was passed by the Queen Mary. Twice. Dan began work at Emporium Capwell and built a career in sales for Blue Cross of Northern California. His years saw him advance to Chairman, President and CEO during which time he merged the Southern and Northern plans. Dan retired in 1986 after 33 years with Blue Cross– a good time as the grandchildren had already begun to arrive. Dan and Mary found the lure of travel irresistible and traveled extensively with their granddaughters . His retirement also gave him more time to enjoy his civic interests. Dan is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary, his brother Hugh and wife Candis of Siletz, Oregon, son Hugh and wife Victoria of Piedmont, granddaughters Jennifer, Lena and Katharine of Newport, Oregon, Emma and Laura of Piedmont and four great grand-children. He is predeceased by beloved son Howard and brother William. Dan had a bright and admirable character, was an interesting conversationalist and will be deeply missed by his many friends and family members. Services will be held at the Piedmont Community Church, where Dan and Mary have been members for many years, at 2pm 28 July. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Piedmont Council Boy Scouts or your favorite charity. Tags: 1944
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