Hans Smestad, 94 of Forks Twp., PA formerly of Manalapan, NJ, Brooklyn, NY and Hamar, Norway died Monday, February 19, 2024 at the Lehigh Valley Hospice. Born April 27, 1929 in Hamar, Norway, he was a son of the late Leif and Astrid (Nygaard) Smestad. His wife of 69 years, Anna (Thoresen) Smestad died in 2020. He was employed by the Local 1456 Carpenter’s Union in New York City for many years before retiring.
Hans grew up in Norway and survived the Nazi occupation there during WWII. He was 16 when the war ended, and with few prospects at home, went to sea as a merchant marine for five years, eventually settling in the Norwegian section of Brooklyn, Bay Ridge. That is where he met the love of his life, Anna, who had also survived the war. They married and had six children together. He was a very active member of Arndt’s Lutheran Church, Forks Twp. and a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. He also loved to bowl and especially loved time with his family.
He is survived by his children: Linda Smestad (Eivind) in Norway, John Smestad (Kim) of Forks Twp., PA, Judy Smestad-Nunn (Richard) of Brick, NJ, Astri Smestad-Myhre (Sigbjorn) of Cranford, NJ, Kristian Smestad (Jerelyn) of Westerly, RI; 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Anna and his son: Erik Smestad.
A Memorial Service will be held 3 PM Saturday (Feb. 24) in Arndt’s Lutheran Church, 1851 Arndt Road, Easton, PA with a calling period from 2 to 3 PM in the church. The Ashton Funeral Home, Easton is handling arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Arndts Lutheran Church, 1851 Arndt Rd., Easton, PA 18040. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Janet Paciaffi
February 21, 2024 at 1:30 pm
I can’t imagine what grief you are going through, but I know that it is terrible beyond words. You have our love and sympathy. Janet and Dewey
Kathy Baratta
February 21, 2024 at 6:46 pm
Your father lived a long and interesting life full of love and family. I know you’ll take comfort in that. All my love to you at this time. I’m here if you need to talk – about anything.
Jo Ann Petruzel
February 22, 2024 at 4:42 pm
So very sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. It seems that he had a very full life so thinking about all the wonderful times together hopefully will help your healing.
Geri Heinrichs
February 23, 2024 at 9:45 am
My heartfelt condolences in this time of sorrow. I will always remember your father as a very special, amazing person. Sending love and comforting hugs.
Fran (Charlesworth) Monteleone
February 24, 2024 at 10:40 am
Dearest Judy and family,
It was with a sad heart, that I learned about Hans death.
I will remember his welcoming smile and always a warm greeting when we were together.
I am sorry that I could not be there in person with all of you today. I am up in Connecticut on a retreat weekend keeping Hans and his family in my daily prayers.
I will be watching his service today, via Zoom, and so grateful that I am able to participate in that way.
With love, Cousin Fran 🙏💕