John William Smith

JOHN WILLIAM SMITH John William "Bill" Smith, a man of kindness, quiet strength, and deep devotion to his family, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous fight of several weeks in the hospital after a bout of Covid and Stage 4 Melanoma. He was 81 years old. Born in Kingsville, Texas to John and Billie Smith and raised in Oklahoma, Iowa, and Missouri. Bill carried the values of Midwest America with him throughout his life. He graduated from Moberly High School in 1961. He attended the University of Missouri (Mizzou) before being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War where he served in the Chemical Corps as a Captain. After his service, Bill planted roots in Colorado and lived a full life. It was during a trip to New York City in 1972 that fate introduced him to Lorraine (Lolo) who would become the love of his life and his devoted partner for 52 years. Together they built a beautiful life, raising two exceptional children, Kristin and Brad, who embody his intelligence, compassion, and adventurous spirit. Bill was never one to sit still. He was an avid skier, tennis player, and golfer always up for a challenge. He and his family spent 43 years in Denver and Vail enjoying all the seasons. In his later years, he found joy in traveling with his family and friends making memories and Legends that will be cherished for generations. In 2016, Bill and Lorraine retired to Oracle, Arizona to enjoy the warm climate. He continued to be active in his church activities, pickleball, tennis, golf, and travel. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine, his two children, Kristin and Brad, his cherished grandchildren, McKenna and Logan, a sister Lucy Smith Barker and her husband John, a brother Daniel Nolan Smith, and his wife Verna, and a wide circle of family and friends who will miss him dearly. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you honor Bill's memory by taking a walk with someone you love, picking up a tennis/pickleball racket, or golf club or simply sharing a good story and a hearty laugh.He succumbed not to illness, but to a life fully lived.