SMITH - Darwin E.At age 79, of the City of Tonawanda, NY, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 22, 2025, after a brief illness. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Darwin served during the Vietnam War aboard submarines. After his service, he worked for many years at DuPont, known for his strong work ethic and ability to fix just about anything. He was married to his wife, Linda, for 49 years. Together they raised six children: Jennifer (Gerald) Kurdziel, Jacquelynn Smith (Jason McGirr), Ann Marie (Tom) Amodeo, Courtney (Kenny) Gold, Holly (Raymond) Bailey, and Joshua (Chrissy) Smith. Darwin was adored by his grandchildren: Samantha, Victoria, Jonathan, Jason Jr., Conner, Emma, Kayla, Charles, Margaret, Tommy, Alivia, Madelyn, Bea, Jordan, Henry, and Jaxson. His family meant everything to him. A man of quiet conviction and faith, Darwin lived with a steady sense of purpose and peace. He was known for his dry wit, love of bowling, passion for buffets, and devotion to his New York Yankees. He gave back to his community as a youth baseball coach, sharing his love of the game and his signature laugh with generations of young players. He was the family handyman, always ready to lend a hand or fix whatever was broken, and the family photographer, capturing moments that have become treasured memories. He will be deeply missed, and his legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on. Family and friends will be present Thursday, March 27, 2025 from 5-7 PM for a Celebration of Life Gathering at the CASTIGLIA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, (716) 824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.castigliafuneralhome.com Mr. Smith entered the U.S. Navy on January 22, 1966 as Chefs Cook on the USS Sea Lion (LPSS- 315) a Balao-Class submarine. He served his nation for 3 years and 8 months on active duty, 2 years 10 months sea service operating off the coast of Key West. He was honorably discharged at Naval Station Philadelphia, PA as CS2 (E- 5) on October 3, 1969. Mr. Smith was awarded; Navy Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. After his military service, Mr. Smith worked at DuPont in Tonawanda, NY until he retired.