100 chapters of life: WWII veteran celebrates milestone birthday

GERMFASK, Mich. (WJMN) – In 1924, Calvin Coolidge was the President of the United States, Walt Disney created his first cartoon, and the Milky Way candy bar was introduced and Eugene Smith was born.

With many years, means many chapters to the Germfask man’s story.

“He grew up in Germfask, and lost his parents when he was quite young,” said Bob Smith, Eugene’s son. “Around 11, 13, 14 years old, somewhere. They were all adopted out. He was at the orphanage in Marquette for a while and his grandpa went and got him.”

As Eugene’s son says, his dad would do anything for anybody and that shows through his service in WWII and being a Shriner for over 50 years.

“Two years, eight months and four days in the Air Force,” said Eugene. “I was there for D-Day. That was the 6th and my birthday was the next day. That was 80 years ago. I turned 20 the next day.”

With 100 years of life, Eugene, his family and friends gathered in Germfask on Saturday to celebrate this huge milestone.

“I’m impressed,” said Bob. “Grateful for all the people who showed up and wished Dad a happy birthday.”

“I didn’t know I had so many friends, and I just can’t thank them enough for all of the people that came here today,” said Eugene.

Eugene even received some state recognition from State Senator Ed McBroom and State Representative Dave Prestin who stopping by to proclaim a ‘Special Tribute.’

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