WILLARD SMETHURST
Willard J. Smethurst, 88, of Prairie du Chien and formerly of Eastman, passed away Saturday, October 7, 2006, at the Onalaska Care Center, Onalaska.
He was born December 16, 1917, in Eastman, son of Harley and Martha (Becwar) SMETHURST. He married Janet Bean on June 27, 1951.
He worked as a machinist for JIK's Tractor Works and later for Styberg Engineering both in Racine. After moving back to the Prairie du Chien area he worked at the Piggly Wiggly and Wyalusing Academy. Although many will remember Bill as owning and operating the Bait Shanty in Prairie du Chien which in later years was known as Willy and Nelly's Bait Shop, for 23 years. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Janet SMETHURST of Prairie du Chien, a daughter Julie Daniels of La Crosse, and a granddaughter Jackie Daniels of Onalaska. He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter Mary SMETHURST.
Funeral services were Monday, at the Garrity Funeral Home Chapel, Prairie du Chien, Rev. Thomas Huff officiating, with burial in the St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in Eastman .