Obituary of Norman Fackrell Smith

Norman Fackrell Smith, 82, of Tumwater, Washington (formerly of Eugene, Oregon) passed away peacefully in his home on November 28, 2018.  He met the challenges of Alzheimer’s with grace and humor.

Norm is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sylvia; daughters, Janna (Steve) Jensen and Stacy (David) Ely; sons, Matthew (Kris) Smith, Stuart (Kim) Smith, Eric (Kelly) Smith; sister, Lorraine Jensen; and 16 grandchildren.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Bernetta; sisters, Virginia, Bernice, Dolores, and Eva Jean; brother, Tommy; and grandson, Austin Jensen.

Norm was born September 3, 1936 in Preston, Idaho.  He served for two years in the Northern States Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  He also served his country in the National Guard. In 1963, he graduated from BYU, where all of his children eventually graduated as well.  He was the founder, owner and manager of The Family Tree Bookstore in Eugene, Oregon for 28 years. The bookstore became the catalyst and focal point of many long lasting friendships and enduring relationships.  

Norm shared the gospel and his enthusiasm for life through his love of nature and camping; his love of fun, jokes and humor; as a full-time missionary, soldier, scout leader, home teacher; through multiple roles in the Church young men’s program, early morning seminary teacher for six years, bookstore owner, bishop of a young-adult ward; juggler of oranges much to the surprise and delight of his English language students in China; and as a brother-in-law, uncle, grandpa, father, and husband.