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Keith Smette Obituary
Visitation will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. today at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home, Minot, where friends may sign the register, and will continue from noon to 7 p.m. Monday at Makoti American Legion Hall.
Keith was born Dec. 1, 1978, in Minot, N.D., to Douglas and Charlotte (Vaughn) Smette. He attended school in Granville and Ryder before graduating from North Shore High School in Makoti in 1997. Prior to his deployment, he was a full time student at North Dakota State University in Fargo. While in high school, Keith played baseball and basketball but loved all sports. He enlisted in the North Dakota Army National Guard as a private with Company A, 164th Engineer Battalion (Combat Mechanized), at Minot, and served as a combat engineer. He completed his combat basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and in 2001, completed a primary leadership development course. On Jan. 30, 2003, Keith volunteered for active duty with the 957th Multi-Role Bridge Company with his best friend and younger brother, Robert, and was transferred into the unit as a bridge crew member. He was serving as a sergeant in Operation Iraqi Freedom at the time of his death, committed to helping those who need him and proud to serve his country.
The love that Keith shared with his family was evident every day. Rare is the picture of Keith without his arm around someone, and our lives are full stories of his adventures, each of which were approached with a pure heart and boyish charm. Keith's infectious smile affected everyone he knew, and was clear evidence of the love he shared with his brother Robert, his sister Sarah and his mother and father. He was a caring man who inherited his mother's sensitivity and his father's sense of humor, which gave him the ability to know no stranger and endear himself to everyone he met. In his spare time, Keith was the ultimate omni-sportsman, he specially enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and friends.
He had a special connection with children and used this gift in his work with the Big Brother/Big Sister Program in Fargo, and was especially proud of his little brother, Cody. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Ryder, the Makoti American Legion William Hanson Post No. 230, the Enlisted Association of the Army National Guard and the Toby Keith Fan Club. He worked as a landscaper with Lowe's Garden Center in Minot with his cousin Jeff and many of his best friends for several summers. He also worked at the YMCA and Quizno's, both of Fargo.
Keith is survived by his parents, Douglas and Charlotte Smette, Makoti; his brother, Robert Smette, Makoti; his sister, Sarah Smette, Madison, Wis.; his grandparents, Leatha Smette, Granville, Darrell (Lucille) Vaughn, Cleveland, Tenn., and Wanda (Charles) Mulligan, Makoti; his aunts and uncles, Annella (Raymond) Miller, Deering, Myron (Linda) Smette, Granville, Delila (Raymond) Miller, Oneida, Tenn., Donna (Kenneth) Grilley, Surrey, Debbie (Gary) Stratton, Deering, Barbara (Charles) Peacock, North Richland Hills, Texas, Elizabeth (Joe) Montoya, Austin, Texas, and James (Becky) Vaughn, Cleveland, Tenn.; and numerous cousins and relatives.
Memorials are preferred to the Makoti American Legion William Hanson Post No. 230, St. John's Lutheran Church, Ryder, Calvary Presbyterian Church, Ryder or Big Brother/Big Sister Program in Fargo.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Keith Smette
Charlie Gili
August 31, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Smette Family and friends know that we will be sending Care Packages to troops in Afghanistan this week and we'll be dedicating several of these to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo and the hometown of Keith L. Smette US Army Sergeant. We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Leila Campbell
May 6, 2013
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, 26 May 2013. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each 8-foot cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Freedom:Free, but Costly.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and there place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel. The Memorial Garden will remain until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, 27 May (Memorial Day).
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/286-7296) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/286-7296) or email the office ([email protected]) and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 25 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday, 26 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Peggy Childers
January 25, 2013
To the family and friends of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
It has truly been my honor to sign Keith's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Keith will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
nathan baldwin
May 26, 2012
I served with your brother. I regret that I never had the same honor of serving with such a great man such as yourself....you are in our hearts daily brother.......SSG Nathan Baldwin
April 23, 2012
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday 27 May 2012. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served the United States and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Lest We Forget Freedom's Cost.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office, and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 26 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday 27 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Peggy Childers
January 24, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
Always remembering Keith. "Some gave all."
May 8, 2011
To the family of Sgt Keith L Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May 2011. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 200 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one. The Memorial Garden’s perimeter will be manned by members of the Patriot Guard and a honor guard from AMVETS Post #1 of Mendota will be posted at the entrance.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of our nation’s wars.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “A Believer’s Look at War.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 28 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 29 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Peggy Childers
January 24, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
Please accept my remembrance of Keith on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
April 30, 2010
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 30 May 2010. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses to represent all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “A Day of Remembrance.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception; weather permitting will be outside of the Chapel.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 29 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 30 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Shea Colby
February 6, 2010
I think about Kieth and the smile and positive attitude that he always had. What a great friend and Soldier Kieth was.
Donna Gillette
January 24, 2010
To the Family of Sgt Keith Smette:
I wanted to send you a note to let you know that Keith is in my prayers and I am grateful for what he had done. When you think of Keith may God give you comfort.
Peggy Childers
January 24, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
Remembering Keith on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Heidi Frøystein
December 16, 2009
It's been almost six years, but I still think about you and what happend. It still feels so unreal!
From a former norwegian student at UND.
Heidi.
Kenna
November 23, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,800 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Leila Campbell
May 1, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 24 May 2009. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “Answering the Highest Call.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception in the Chapel’s Fellowship Hall.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 23 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 24 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
In Memory of Keith ~ (Debra Estep)
February 6, 2009
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Keith, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Peggy Childers
January 24, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
Keith gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
R Collis
July 24, 2008
It is difficult to know what to say since I want to express my sympathy to the family and friends of Sgt Smette. Please know that your loved one is not forgotten. I wish everyone impacted by this tragic loss strength and peace. I hope that Sgt Smette knew that there are people in America who respect his great courage in serving as a member of the US military. Although I did not know him, I know that he must have been a very special person to be willing to do something that most Americans will never have to experience, and for that we can never say thank you enough.
Thank you Sgt Smette!
Leila Campbell
April 19, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 25 May, 2008. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “The Price of Freedom” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat. 24 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun. 25 May, a “PrayerVigil for Peace” will be held. You are invited to stop by and light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden, then enter the Chapel for prayer.
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
March 22, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Smette!
August 6, 2007
I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY
July 8, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Smette and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Gary Allain
June 14, 2007
Sgt. Keith AL. Smette
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Leila Campbell
May 2, 2007
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 27 May, 2007. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “Remembering” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org
If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org
Garnet Jenkins
January 27, 2007
In Remembrance of this Fine Young Soldier, Sgt. Keith L. Smette, who Gave his All for our Country and for Freedom.
May Keith, rest safely in God's Care and know that he is a True American hero, that shall Never Be Forgotten.
May the Peace of the Lord be with the Smette family.
There will never be enough ways, to humbly thank these Heroes, for their Supreme Sacrifice, my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have have passed away."
Revelations 21:4
May you find peace in knowing the love and memories you have, will remain in your heart forever and that this Country remembers Keith's sacrifice.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
December 26, 2006
Please know that you are thought of and will never be forgotten. Thank you for bravery and sacrifice. You are missed.
Leila Campbell
May 1, 2006
To the family of Sgt. Keith L. Smette:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 28 May, 2006. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.
I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “What Are We to Remember?” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.
As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.
Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
Michelle Goldmann
December 4, 2005
Keith...I still think of you often..I feel honored to have know you...You are a true american hero...rest long and well my dear friend.
K. Brink
September 1, 2005
I was very shocked and saddended by the news of Keith's death. We met during our freshman year at NDSU. He was always wearing a bucket hat, and so we called him Gilligan. I didn't know his real name until I saw his picture on TV. My thoughts and prayers are with his whole family.
John Czapiewski
May 28, 2005
I notified Keith's parents of his passing. It was, and always will be, the darkest day of my career. May God bless and watch over Keith and his family.
Dustin Enockson
May 24, 2005
It is hard to say things to something like this. But I just want to say that there isn't a day that goes by when I think about Smette Family for there loss of Keith. I love this family with all of all of my heart. God Bless this family. And Keith, where ever you are, I Love You and we all Miss You. Thanks for the examples and for all the influences you passed on to us. Rest in Peace. God Bless You.
Henryk Zaleski
May 11, 2005
Your tour of duty here is done.Rest in peace "serge".God bless you.
Lossie Evans
May 9, 2005
I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. I PRAY GOD WILL BLESS YOUR FAMILY. I PRAY FOR ALL OUR SERVICE PEOPLE. I TOO HAVE A SON GOING BACK TO IRAQ IN JUNE. HE IS A TRUE AMERICAN AS YOUR SON WAS AND PROUD OF IT.
Sandra Henrichs
April 28, 2005
My very sincere condolences to the family. My father, Sgt. William F. Henrichs, Jr. was the first U.S. soldier from North Dakota to be killed in action during WWII. So, I can clearly identify with your profound loss. My love and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
Sandy Henrichs
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How to support Keith's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Keith Smette's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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