Harvey E. "Bud" Smith

Harvey "Bud" E. Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and proud U.S. Navy veteran, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. He was 76 years old and, as Bud would've said with that familiar grin, "finally off duty."
Born on December 4, 1948, Bud lived a life full of grit, laughter, and love. A proud Seabee, he served his country in the United States Navy from January 1967 to 1970, completing three tours in Vietnam. He was stationed in Da Nang during the TET Offensive of 1968, and though he faced danger most of us can only imagine, he rarely spoke about it-except to remind everyone, with that trademark twinkle in his eye, that he served "three years, nine months, and five days." (But who's counting?)
After his military service, Bud brought his strong work ethic and quick wit home, working for Standard Homes, the City of Overland Park, Earp Meat Company, Wally Geyer Trucking, and Hill Brothers Transportation. Whether behind the wheel of a truck or fixing something that wasn't really broken, Bud was happiest when he had a job to do and a story to tell.
He shared 33 wonderful years with his wife, Jan, the love of his life and his partner through every adventure. Together, they built a home where laughter was abundant, and Bud's humor kept Jan always wondering what was next.
Bud was a straight shooter, a storyteller, and a man who believed that a good laugh and a full plate could fix just about anything. He had a special knack for making people feel at ease-whether through a perfectly timed joke, a tall tale from his Navy days, or one of his famous "helpful suggestions" that always came with a wink.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jan Smith; his children, Laura (Jamie) Parker and Steven (Gina) Smith; and his stepson, Scott (Susan) Meddings. He is also survived by his sister Judith (Larry) McGhee and brother Raymond (Nancy) Smith.
Bud's legacy of love and laughter lives on through his grandchildren and great-grandchildren:
• Laura's family: 5 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren
• Steven's family: 1 grandchild, 2 step-grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren
• Scot's family: 2 granddaughters
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey A. and Doris Irene (Ollinger) Smith; sisters Donna Rose and Margie Johnson; and brother Earnest Lee Smith.
Bud lived by simple rules: love God, work hard, love your family, serve your country proudly, and don't take life too seriously. His laughter, wisdom, and one-of-a-kind humor will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23
The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, love, and support during this time. Bud would be deeply touched-though he'd probably say with a smile, "You didn't have to make such a fuss."