Dennis A Smith

Dennis A. Smith was born July 26, 1945 , in National City , California . He was raised in a naval military family by Florence May and Drennen Gibbons Ikard. His siblings include his elder brother Wyman Paul Smith, younger sister, Pamela Jean Anderson and youngest brother, James Neal Ikard Smith-- all of California .

Upon completion of high school, Dennis attended San Diego University then received his pilot’s wings in 1966 through the US Army Training Command.

He was married to MaryAnn Johnston on June 3, 1967 , at the Ft. Rucker Chapel in Alabama where they began their military career. Dennis was a Vietnam veteran and flew Chinooks in Colorado , Germany and Hawaii . He retired from Ft. Hood in 1987 after 24 years of service. During his service Dennis received numerous awards-- some of which include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service and the Air Medal with numeral 27. After receiving his honorable discharge, Dennis flew helicopters for various private oil companies in the Gulf of Mexico and, after 22 years, retired again. He began riding with the Central Texas Patriot Guard 12 years ago and found a home in their ranks.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, MaryAnn Smith, his son, Derek B. Smith and daughter-in-law, Kristi Smith and his eldest 3 granddaughters, Maegan, Maddy and Molly of Oklahoma City; his daughter, Diedhre K. and son-in-law, Chuck Smack, and his 3 youngest granddaughters, Isabel, Corinne and Alysse of Belton, TX. Extended family includes Wayne and Nancy Halbrook, Kerry Fellers, Courtney and David Holley and their children, Brandon and Emma. Knowing Dennis well, meant that you became part of his extended family--whether you were a fellow rider or a neighbor, he claimed you and loved you well.

In lieu of condolences, please send all donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in his honor. This is an organization Dennis believed in and regularly supported.