Van-Smith-Obituary

Van R. Smith

Belleville, Illinois

1945 - 2012

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Belleville, Illinois

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Van SmithVan R. Smith, of Belleville, Ill., born Feb. 6, 1945, in Avon, Ill., passed away suddenly Thursday, May 24, 2012, at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, Ill.Van's early life was centered around the love of athletics and frolics of free-spirited friends in Wood River, Ill. He attended...

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Ann and family. After 12 years...I think of Van so many times in my journey throughout life. What a God fearing man. Admired by so many people. I miss Van so much. He was a wonderful human being and a true friend. I remember the many times sitting at games with `Hack´ talking baseball. I learned so much more about the game and evaluating talent from Van. I pray that all of you are doing well and that you think of Van often as you go about you lives. - - - Steve (Bergy) Bergheger

I will never forget Van. He was a very special person. Best laugh ever. Nancy Bracey

God must have smiled when He welcomed you home Van. Your sweet laugh, your loving personality, your love of the Lord...You are still missed but we rejoice that one day we all smile together in Heaven with our Lord. Auntie Sue and Uncle Jim Lemmon.

I will never forget Van. He was a great man and friend. The best laugh ever. He is with my husband Ken Bracey in heaven. We had good times. Love u Ann

You are still missed Van. You were a little guy when Jimmy courted me back in our high school days. We both loved you then and all your life. It was Jim’s great honor n privilege to introduce you to his alma mater University of Houston coaches. You did him proud as you were so liked and thought of there and everywhere you went. You never met a stranger and you were Always a powerful influence on the young athletes you encountered. Plus you were the everlasting love of Ann your wife and your...

Still miss you Van. Think of you often. Hope Mr Bracey is with you. Love you. Nancy Bracey

I will never forget Van the man. I can still hear his laugh. Great person. Im sure he is in heaven with all his family and friends. Still love you Van. Nancy Bracey

I will always remember Van with a smile on his face. He always made you feel like you were somebody. I will treasure my time being around Van while we would meet on our scouting ways. My thoughts are with you.

Ann and family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Van was a great guy, we enjoyed reconnecting at the '65 reunion. You have our deepest sympathies and prayers.