Roland Ray Smith was born in Doniphan, Nebraska on December 30th, 1926. To his parents Troy E. Smith & Lillie Mae (Boroff) Smith. He had one sister Dolores (Smith) Swoboda. He graduated from Doniphan High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944 where he served as a machinist’s mate first class. He served during World War II. His CB name was High Pockets & a nickname of Smitty was given to him by his shipmates.
Rolland did not know how to swim but they made him jump off the ship anyway. He served on the Ship U.S.S. Medusa AR-1. He was discharged in 1946 and returned to the Doniphan area. During his time in the United States Navy he was single. After being discharged from the Navy he met Dorothy. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Lewandowski on January 19th, 1949 in Rapid City, South Dakota. After marriage the two lived in Grand Island, Nebraska until his death.
He was employed at Holcomb Hatchery, then as a salesman for Sidles. In the early 60’s he worked in Costa Mesa, CA for a couple of years to help his sister run her auto body shop after her husband had passed. At the time of his death was employed with Red Rooster Sales Co. Rolland was known by many in the Grand Island community because of his time at Red Rooster Sales. Roland & Dorothy had two daughters together Pam Schultz and Kathy Schlachter. He has 4 Grandsons. Rolland passed away on July 13, 1988.
