David S. Smith

David Shetrone “Dave” Smith, 72, of Hanover, ended his battle with dementia on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Dave was the loving husband of Mandi Hansford Smith, to whom he was married for 40 years.

Born on April 30, 1952 in Hanover, he was the son of the late Thomas H. and Josephine S. Smith. A 1970 graduate of Hanover High School, he attended Bowman’s Technical School, graduating in 1971 to become a stone setter and bench jeweler. He worked at Thomas H. Smith for more than 40 years, until it’s closing in 2017.

Dave served in the United States Army, was part of the last draft class of 1972, and was stationed in Berlin, Germany for most of his service time. While in Germany, he operated the Howitzer Artillery Piece and guarded Rudolph Hess. He loved living in Germany and used his free time to explore various parts of Europe and developed a love of foosball. He frequently mentioned how much he enjoyed fresh beer.

An avid outdoorsman, he loved biking, unicycling, hiking, downhill and cross country skiing, canoeing, sailing, flying all types of kites when the wind was right, and much more. Along with Mandi, Dave traveled and experienced many places within the USA, Canada and abroad.

In addition to his wife, survivors include his sister, Vicki Smith (Ken) Fissel; and “outlaws”, Andy (Kack) Hansford, Randy (Deb) Hansford, Neale Hansford, and Candi (Tom) Maloney; nieces and nephews, Eric (Corrina) Hansford, Andrea (Steve) Hutton, Shane (Jen) Hansford, Lealand (Ann) Hansford, Allyson (Kevin) Cabradillia, Mark Hansford, Josh (Kelly) Morningstar, Heather (Mike) Rohlmeir and Brynn Myers; and four fun-loving exchange students, Kamilla, Nina, Britt and Claire.

Over the last ten years, joy and laughter were brought into Dave’s life by individuals who generously gave of their time to visit and help make his restricted life a place of happiness. He would have never imagined he would be surrounded by a “harem” of devoted, loving and kind women. He loved them all.

A private service is planned.

As an alternative to flowers or planters, please consider donating to the Salvation Army, Mennonite Disaster Service, the Hanover Public Library, Hoffman Homes, or to a charity of your choosing.

In his honor, spread a little kindness and share a smile with those you meet.

“Youth is after all, just a moment, the spark that you always carry in your heart.” – Raisa Gorbachev