Mervin Smith

Merv Smith, lifelong resident of the Olympia/Lacey area, passed away March 13, 2021. He was born December 12, 1935 to Laura and Walter Smith. Merv married Carol M. Kalinowski on July 29, 1957, at Olympia’s St. Michael Church. He served as a lineman in the National Guard for three years, and he established his general contractors’ business in 1964. Considered by many to be the best custom home builder in town, he built countless homes, additions and remodels. He was proud of his accomplishments and work ethic, and shared his skill and wisdom, and sometimes a boot, with anyone lucky enough to work with him. He was a hard-working perfectionist, honest, caring, giving, and loved to laugh. He was an expert gardener and grew the best corn around. Most of all, he loved spending time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Merv is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carol Smith; sons, Michael Smith (wife, Nichon), and James Smith (wife, Lisa); daughter, Shari Lukes (husband, Kyle); sister Emily Bartlett (husband, Alfred); grandsons, Kyle Smith and Garrett Thorstrom Smith; granddaughters, Taryn Wood (husband, Sam), Karlin and Kaitlyn Smith, and Carla Bordner; great-grandchildren, Madelyn Wood, Fox and Lumi Gordon; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Laura and Walter Smith; brothers, Wesley Smith, Frank Smith and Lowell Smith; sister, Nora Brown; grandson, Colton Thorstrom Smith. Memorial donations may be made to Colton Thorstrom Smith Scholarship Fund for River Ridge High School through Olympia Federal Savings, or a charity of your choice. An informal celebration of Merv’s life will be held Sunday, March 28, 2021, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the family home. All who knew Merv are welcome. Please leave condolences or share memories and photos on the Tribute Wall to the left.