Smith, Darrell Eugene March 17, 1939 - July 10, 2010. Darrell was born and raised in the mining town of Ray, AZ. He left for Tucson to attend the University of Arizona from where he graduated with an engineering degree and began a 30+ year career with Salt River Project. Darrell was an avid outdoorsman and loved all that the Southwest's rugged and varied terrain offered. Hiking, fishing and four-wheeling were his favorite ways to enjoy the beautiful Sonoran Desert and the glorious mountains surrounding Durango, CO where he and Sonja lived for 10 years. Darrell respected the land and loved to enjoy it with others. He was a man of deep conviction and love for his Maker and Savior. He enjoyed time with his children, stepchildren and grandchildren and worked to develop lifelong relationships with his extended family and friends. Darrell pursued excellence in every endeavor. His hobbies were woodworking, cooking and coin collecting. He leaves a legacy to his family and friends of love, loyalty and the perseverance to succeed. He is survived by his beloved wife Sonja, daughter Mindi and son Matt, two stepchildren, 10 grandchildren and his sister Charlene, as well as two nephews and a niece. A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday, July 15, 2010, 5 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Scottsdale, 7025 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of the Valley. Arrangements entrusted to Mariposa Gardens Funeral Care, Mesa. Published in The Arizona Republic from July 13 to July 14, 2010