Duane Smith Obituary

Duane was my advisor @ FLC from 1967-1971.

Slow pitch softball. Duane pitched and organized the team of Kroeger's Hardware. Enjoyed gardening and shared produce. Patient fixer of church's sprinkling system. A loyal Democrat. Regular jogger. True blue friend of many.

Condolences to Lara and Mike. We feel your loss and will miss him deeply. Whenever we went book shopping finding a book written by Duane Smith always gave us a sense of pride in our small college town. We learned a lot from him. He will always be remembered as a pillar of our community. Rest in Peace Duane.

As a student, I struggled with any History or writing class! Dr. Smith taught me that with stories it would always be easier to remember history. I remember going to class, putting my head down on the desk and writing everything I could as he was talking. I would then go back to my room and rewrite every word again, and then read and re-read the stories until the test. And then, I'd write them again, for the first time in my life, I earned an "A" in History! I still have all of my notes from the 3 classes I took with Dr. Smith, I still remember most of the stories, and I still use the techniques I learned in his classes today in my own business (I use stories for illustrations). Dr. Smith probably never knew who I was because I was brutally shy - but I certainly knew him - and will always be grateful for all that he taught me. Rest in peace, your legacy will live on.

Never enjoyed history classes until I was fortunate enough to be a student engaged in one (of several) of Dr. Duane Smith's lectures. He brought history to life through his research, 'retellings', animation, engagement...he simply drew you in with past-to-present events, stories, and the influence they had and have on our lives.
His academic attributes aside, he was the epidemy of a true gentleman, philanthropist, and preservationist of our town - our state - our environment - our history.
Anyone and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him has been enriched by his presence.

Dr. Smith was one of my favorite professors at Fort Lewis, and one of the leading experts on Colorado history in the state. Despite his academic acclaim, he was never pompous and was always available to help his students. He had a friendly manner in his lectures, and a great sense of humor which helped make his students more attentive and eager to learn. He loved his subject matter, and his excitement for it was contagious to his students. With his credentials, both as a writer and an academician, he could have taught anywhere in the country, but loved living in Durango and teaching at Fort Lewis. Despite his academic success, he was never pompous, and genuinely enjoyed his discussions with his students and the public.

Truly one of the best educators at Ft. Lewis College when I attended in the late 70's and 80's. Dr. Smith was also very knowledgeable in the local area history if I remember correctly. As a former student of his, my experience at Ft. Lewis College was that much more memorable. Thank you for your kindness and lessons Sr. Smith. Rest in peace sir.

As an employee of FLC, I took a class from Duane Smith. He always gave you something to take with you.

He will be missed by all his past students, family, friends and co-workers. RIP Duane but keep your eye on the Cubbies.

I am origially from Illinois. GO CUBS!!! It was awesome when they won it in 2016. I went to Fort Lewis College from 2000-2004. I took Colorado History class. Duane new his Colorado History so well that he hardly ever wrote anything on the huge whiteboard in the class room. Always saw him at FLC Athletic games. RIP my awesome teacher and sports friend.

I had Duane Smith for history classes at FLC back in the early 70s. One of the best teachers ever. A true legend. I still have an autographed copy of his book Horace Tabor that he signed for me.

Dr. Smith was the greatest professor or teacher I had. He kept his students engaged, and had such a great way to share his love for Colorado history, as well as baseball. He was instrumental in helping me to understand my home and surroundings. I'd say a life very well spent.

Rest in peace, Dr. Smith. Your classes were memorable and your books important. I attended FLC 1970-1974 and remember your classes and your love for your family.

Sorry for your loss Laura and Mike. Hugs

Durango has lost a true treasure. Professor Smith was a highlight of my college career. He inspired me to become a history teacher. His lectures were never dull, and he would leave you hanging on Friday so you had to be there on Monday to find out the outcome. Our history is well preserved because of his writings (and his wife editing). He was always a pleasure to see and talk to and there was never a dull moment in our conversations. Durango is going to miss this person that gave so much to us. Thank you Dr. Smith for a life well lived.
(I sure hope I spelled everything correctly for you)

Duane was my Colorado History professor when I went to FLC (1980 - 1985). He gave very exciting lectures. You sat on the edge of your seat when he was talking. There aren't enough words to describe his lectures. One of the best classes I ever took in my whole tenure in college and graduate school was his Colorado History course. Most excellent! My condolences to the rest of the Smith family. He was a genuine gold mine.