FARMINGTON – Walter J. Smith, 73, of Washington Street in Rumford and longtime resident of Redondo Beach, Calif., died Nov. 20, at Sandy River Rehab, a victim of Parkinson’s disease.

He was born in West Peru, on May 13, 1934, a son of Walter J. Sr. and Angie (Oldham) Smith.

He graduated from Stephens High School, Class of 1952, and then went on to serve four years of active military service in the Air Force from 1953 to 1957.

He was employed by Hughes Aircraft (later Raytheon) for 39 years as senior project engineer, specializing in field service and supporting Hughes equipment in Alaska, Greenland, Labrador, Vietnam, Thailand, Germany, and many statewide locations, retiring in 1995.

His leisure time was spent flying, restoring antique cars, hiking, gardening and photography.

He is survived by two sisters, Ferne A. Arsenault and husband, Robert, of Rumford and Mary Mitchell and husband, Peter, of Exeter, N.H.; a brother, Albert Smith and wife, Barbara, of Rumford; and 10 nieces and nephews.

Walter’s family extends profound thanks to Sandy River Health & Rehab Center of Farmington for the most excellent care he received from the staff, so gentle and professional. Our gratitude to all departments, Rehab, Speech & Swallowing, Physical Therapy, Dietary Department, Social Services and Administrative Staff are all so appreciated.