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George followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather and joined the US Army and was commissioned as an officer after graduation. He served his country for 30 years as a commander in the Military Police and retired as a Colonel in the CID Division. During his time in the Army, he did tours with his family in Germany, Virginia (3), Alabama, Georgia, Florida (he earned his MA in Criminology at Florida State), Kansas, Korea (2) and Washington. His favorite post was commanding the 728th MP Battalion in Taegu, Korea, where he had the opportunity to connect with and guide his soldiers.
He was a man of service and a true educator. An influential leader in the Army he was committed to making those around him better and preparing them for their next steps as commanders. Upon retirement from the Army, George became the Director of Security at Disneyland, then settled in Kailua, Hawaii.
George Smith loved his family and was devoted to their well being and successes. He is survived by his wife Susan Cowan of 19 years and 5 children: Kim, Georgianne, Jessica, Micah and Kalen, his two sisters Barbara Gibb (Chuck Gibb) and Susan Tom, and his beloved black labradors, Chloe and Quapaw. He was incredibly proud of his kids and reveled in the details of their lives. He enjoyed spending time and getting to know his grandkids: Gracen, Bella, Luca (Connells) and Zach and Zayn Smith in the final years of his life.
George believed that the essence of leadership was being visible, engaged and listening. He brought these qualities into every connection: family, neighbors, and new faces. His empathy combined with his sense of humor and his ability to laugh at the absurdity of life, left an indelible mark on the connections in his life and the world around him. In his battle with ALS, he was a true warrior. He defied the odds of time, and in this space he gave the ultimate gift to his family - unity.
George may have reached this finish line, but he has stepped gracefully, profoundly into the spiritual, wearing his blue t-shirt with his favorite motto, Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can't Lose.
Arrangements Provided By: Oahu Mortuary
