Obituary

Paul Louis Smet
July 1, 1935 – March 22, 2024

The family of Paul L. Smet, of Laguna Hills California, is saddened to announce his passing on March 22, 2024 at the age of 88 years. Paul passed away at Mission Viejo Hospital due to complications of a recent illness.

Paul was born July 1, 1935 in East De Pere Wisconsin to Edward and Mable (Danen) Smet. He grew up with his older sibling Ronald Smet. Along with their cousin Roger Jansen, they formed the trouble makers club. They shared many adventures and escapades in and around the countryside of East De Pere.

Paul attended St. Norbert High School, graduating Class of 1953. For his Baccalaureate education, he attended St. Norbert College, earning a degree in Biology and Pre-Engineering, graduating in June 1957. Paul married Mary Johnston and entered into the US Army for 5 years. He was stationed in Germany, achieving the rank of Captain. After his time in the service, he moved to Southern California, Mission Viejo. Here, he was an Engineer, Supervisor, and Program Manager at Atlantic Research Corp which later became Brunswick Corp. Defense Division. During this time, he earned his Master’s degrees from the University of Southern California in Mathematics and Aerospace Management.

Following his father’s death, Paul decided to move to Green Bay WI to allow his family a better chance to know their relatives. At this time, he was an operations officer at Hurlbut Prestressed Concrete. He then returned to his former employer in southern California and settled in Laguna Hills, eventually branching off into other spectrums of industry. He became the President/CEO at Invertron Simulated Systems. During this time, he met his current wife Darlene (Cook); they married in June of 1982.

Paul performed with the Laguna Hills’ children’s theater and was thrilled to bring joy to many young children over the years. Paul’s real passion was when he transformed into Santa Claus, every year for 20 years.

Paul was active in his church, Mt. of Olives. He enjoyed camping, swimming, fishing both freshwater and saltwater, and grilling out. A giver of the greatest hugs, Paul loved socializing and was known to tell a tale or two. He especially loved to gather with his friends for Sunday brunches or family for holiday meals. Paul never met a long Sunday drive that he didn’t adore. “Grampy Paul” had tremendous, overflowing love for his family touched many people throughout his lifetime. He will be deeply missed by numerous grandchildren, family members and friends.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Darlene (Cook-Danehart), children Kevin Smet (Madison Wisconsin), Sheri (Smet) Trest (Hernando Mississippi), Christine (Smet) Quigley (Green Bay Wisconsin), Dawn Danehart (Wheeling W. VA),  Terri Wray (Bowling Green Missouri). Paul’s youngest son Brian preceded him in death in December 2023.

Memorial service will be on June 15^th, 2024, at 11 am at Mt. of Olives Church, 24772 Chrisanta Drive, Mission Viejo.  Reception immediately following service.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Paul’s name to Mt. of Olives Lutheran Church, 24772 Chrisanta Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.