Daniel Walter "Dan" Smith, Jr.

Daniel Walter “Dan” Smith, Jr., 68, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Olathe Medical Center, Olathe, Kansas. He was born on April 12, 1957 in Charlotte, North Carolina, the son of Daniel Smith Sr. and Valerie (Hill) Smith.

Dan's journey in life began in Iola, Kansas, where he attended local schools. He later moved to Fredonia, Kansas, where on January 26, 1985, he united in marriage to his beloved wife, Lori Sissom. Together they built a life filled with cherished memories. In 1987, the couple made their home in Ottawa, Kansas, where they continued to create a loving environment.

Throughout his career, Dan worked diligently in the oil field as a pulling unit operator and a pumper for many years. He then transitioned to spending two decades as an electrician for IBEW Local 226 in Topeka, Kansas, a role he held until his retirement in 2013. Dan's commitment to his work exemplified his dedication and strong work ethic, qualities that many admired.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Dan had a variety of interests that enriched his life. He had a passion for hunting and fishing, finding tranquility and joy in nature. He enjoyed playing chess, which challenged his strategic mind, and he took pride in gardening, particularly cultivating sunflowers and strawberries. Most importantly, Dan cherished the time spent with family and friends, whose presence filled his life with love and laughter.

Along with his wife Lori, Dan is survived by his daughter, Jessica Danielle "Jess" Smith, of Ottawa; as well as his grandson, Corbin Schmidt, and granddaughter, Delaney Anderson. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Charles Smith.

A visitation to honor Dan's life will take place on June 21, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Dengel & Son Mortuary in Ottawa, Kansas.

Dan's legacy will continue to live on through the memories of his family and friends, as they celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched so many lives.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Franklin County Cancer Foundation c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.

To share your memories of Dan or to send a special condolence message to his family, please visit the guestbook below.