Curtis Smith

Curtis Callen Smith, 68, passed away peacefully at his home in Missoula, Mont., on Aug. 16, 2017, from natural causes. A private family memorial will take place at a later date. 

Curt was born in 1949 in Iowa City, Iowa, the eldest son of William and Rena Smith. Curt moved with his family as a young man, settling in North Dakota where he attended high school and college. He received his bachelor's degree in business from Minot State. Curt met and married Barb Schussler in Minot. They would travel to Greeley, Colo., where Curt pursued his MBA. They welcomed daughter Anneke there in 1975. They would eventually settle in Bismarck, where they welcomed daughter Jessica in 1978. Curt and Barb divorced after 17 years of marriage.

Curt was an energetic and complicated man. He thrived in the corporate world, but struggled with addiction much of his adult life. His personal struggles led him on a journey across the U.S., leading him to Florida. It was there his struggles intensified. After years of hard living, Curt chose to return to Montana to be closer to his daughters. He lived the remaining years of his life quietly and humbly. He had few friends, but those he had were loyal and steadfast.

Curt had many passions in life. Racquetball, golfing, fishing, camping, running, sports (especially baseball and football), just to name a few. He loved music and reading, and was especially interested in current events. Curt tried his best to excel at everything he did. He was known for his playful sense of humor. It is this robust and charismatic man whom we will all miss.

Curt was preceded in death by his grandparents; his mother; his father; a brother; and nephew.

He is survived by his daughters, Anneke (Dave) Sayler, and Jessica (Joey) Moraca; his grandchildren, Lilliann, David and Kinnon; his brother, Jake Smith; his sister, Lisa White; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to the Poverello Center in Missoula, Mont., or the Missoula Food Bank. Please visit www.cremationburialsocietyoftherockies.com to submit online condolences.