James “Jim” Roger Smith Sr. Age 75, of Minong, WI, died peacefully Monday, March 6, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born on April 23, 1947 in Rice Lake, WI to Harry and Alice (Amundson) Smith.

Jim graduated from Rice Lake High School in 1965 and also graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College in Refrigeration. He worked for Jennie O Turkey Store for many years in refrigeration. He was very involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and the American Legion. He loved spending time with his grandkids and his dogs, and also generously loved helping out other people. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, watching the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers.

He is survived by his significant other of over 25 years, Carroll Walther; 2 children, Jim (Robin) Smith and Jennifer Ruid; 5 grandchildren, James Smith III (Jimmy), Dylan, Ella, Lillian and Johnathen; stepdaughter, Clair ‘dawn Wakefield; 2 brothers, Jeff (Louise) Smith and Jason Smith; 5 sisters, Gloria (Mike) Gesicki, Gayle (Mike) Frambs, Geri (Tom) Hall, Gwen Havel and Jeanie Smith; many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Services will be held at 10AM Friday, March 10, 2023 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Rice Lake, Rev. Mike Knox officiating, with interment in Nora Cemetery in Rice Lake, with Military Rites accorded him by the Rice Lake and Minong Veteran Honor Guards. Visitation will be held from 4-7PM Thursday at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake and for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers and St. Croix Hospice for all the care they gave to James.

Memorials would be appreciated to the Veteran Administration, Little Red Dog Barn Rescue or Alzheimer’s Association.

Last Update: Mar 08, 2023 12:15 pm CST