Jack Elwood Smedley
May 17, 1919 - April 10, 2010
Jack Elwood Smedley
Jack Elwood Smedley, 90, died April 10th, 2010 in Salt Lake City of longevity.
Born May 17th, 1919, in Downey, ID to Dr. Raleigh Elwood and Laura Malinda Hedricks; raised in Burley, ID. Jack loved siblings Raleigh Wilson (Bud), Delsa Lorraine and Russell Edward (Tut). He met Muriel Beth Axtell at U. of Idaho. They married Feb. 27th, 1943 and had two daughters.
In WWII, Jack served as 1st Lt. in 2nd Infantry Div. in Europe, then moved to Washington, D.C to work with USGS at Smithsonian Institute. A geologist and paleontologist, he authored numerous scientific publications and discovered a fossil later named for him. As president of Va. Archaeological Society, he oversaw excavation of a Piedmont Indian village.
In 1968, Jack moved family to SLC as USGS Western Region geothermal expert specializing in phosphate deposits. He traversed many western miles classifying minerals, fossils and gemstones, and donated collections to the Smithsonian.
A deacon at Mt. Olympus Presbyterian Church, Jack sang in choir, loved opera and classical music, fly fishing, wildlife, camping, gardening, outings with Utah Gem & Mineral Society, and being with family. He deeply appreciated Indian cultures.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and Muriel in 2002. Before passing, Jack shared he’d accomplished everything he’d wanted, especially instilling his love of nature in his girls.
Jack leaves daughters Lauriel Beth, Albuquerque, NM, Carol Diane, SLC, grandson Daniel Lucero, sister-in-law Jane Smedley, many nieces & nephews, cherished friends, neighbors and beloved dog Kokie. Dad-you’re always in our hearts.
Services will be held on Monday, April 26th at 11:00 A.M. at Mount Olympus Presbyterian Church, 3280 E. 3900 S. Interment Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 Highland Dr.
In lieu of flowers, a gift to Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, (HC 61 BOX 28 RAMAH, NM 87321) or Mt. Olympus Church would honor him.
In Loving Memory
We enjoyed visiting with Jack and hearing his interesting life stories. He will be missed. Blessings to your family at this time. Al & RoseMarie Parkinson
Al & RoseMarie Parkinson
Salt Lake City, Ut
Carol, As I read your father's obituary, I got the sense he was an intelligent, gentle and loving person- just like you. I'm sure he is proud of you. God bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Traci Marsing
West Jordan, Ut
Carol and Lauriel-from listening to our mom tell us about Jack and by reading,it sounds like your dad lived a rich and wonderful life!-you both must've been very proud to have had him as your Father!-our heartfelt condolences to both of you and the family.
Rod & Stacy Bergsma
Poulsbo, Wa
I haven��t seen my Uncle Jack since 1976. At that time I was hitch-hiking around the western states with a lot of bushy hair, a muslin shirt and a red backpack. I came through SLC and saw Jack and Muriel. When I left Jack dropped me off near the Mormom Temple. The chat in the car on the way there was very pleasant. Not sure what Uncle Jack thought of my trip, but he was kind to me and I��ve always appreciated it. -- Dan
Dan Bailey
Caracas, MI
Carol,, sorry to read about your father...it has been a long time since the four of us drove to San Francisco. for that trip ..Rafi and you.... D*
debbie stegen-peck
nan, nan