It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we report the passing if a truly iconic Disney Legend in Dave Smith. The man who founded the Walt Disney Archives almost 50 years ago has died and the news first came through late on Friday evening.
Dave Smith was 78-years-old.
Less than a week after losing Ron W. Miller, the Disney family has lost another great in the legendary Dave Smith.
Shortly after the news of Dave Smith’s passing, Disney CEO Bob Iger released a statement:
“I’m deeply saddened to learn of Dave Smith’s passing. He was the unsung hero of Disney’s history who, as our first archivist, spent 40 years rescuing countless documents and artifacts from obscurity, investing endless hours restoring and preserving these priceless pieces of our legacy, and putting them in context to tell our story. Dave was a true Disney Legend, and we are indebted to him for building such an enduring, tangible connection to our past that continues to inspire our future.”
Doctor Disney personal note: Fortunately, I personally had the honor of meeting Dave Smith a couple of years ago and getting to spend some time with him. Not only was he a legend in Disney, but a truly iconic person in life.
Dave Smith was a great person who is responsible for numerous smile, billions of laughs, and the warming of hearts around the world. Thank you, sir, and may you rest in peace.
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Dear Dave Smith
Thank you for being a great historian for Disney for over 50 years .
I only wish that when I had contacted you about my late fathers participation that with Walt Disney Company that you could have been kinder to our family . With that being said , Walt Disney Company did right that wring for my late father . Without even asking , my late father was awarded the Pioneer award . Both my late father and I were speaking the truth but unfortunately you for some reason couldn’t hear it .
I know you didn’t mean any personal harm to him either . All is forgiven .
Our family is sadden to learn of your passing away . Your dedication to the archives indeed earned you a Legend award and we are so happy that you are family to Walt Disney Company .
May your memory serve as many special blessings to everyone .
Our condolences to your family Mr. Dave Smith.