Rodney James Smith

Rodney Smith passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Rodney was born in Fargo, North Dakota, and grew up in Fort Ransom. He graduated from Hastings High School before proudly serving his country in the United States military from 1955 to 1961. Following his military service, Rodney began a career with 3M, where he worked faithfully for 31 years before retiring.

Rodney had a passion for the outdoors, camping, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, playing cards, riding motorcycles, traveling, spending winters in Texas, and tinkering with just about anything. He was happiest when he was keeping busy, exploring new places, or sharing stories with family and friends.

On January 23, 1965, Rodney married, Diane Kathryn Bye, and together they were blessed with three children. Following Diane's passing in 2001, Rodney found love again and married Dorothy Meier on September 3, 2004. Through their marriage, Rodney was blessed with two stepchildren, whom he welcomed into his family.

Rodney was known for his gift of storytelling and his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, whether a lifelong friend or someone he had just met. He loved going out to eat, enjoyed spending time with those around him, and lived by a simple but meaningful principle—always doing the right thing. His kindness, warm personality, and genuine interest in others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Jurdis; stepfather, Ray Sobeck; his first wife, Diane Smith; and his sister, Patricia (Tom) Reuter.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Dorothy Smith; his children, David (Hiromi) Smith, Jennifer (Darin) Hernlem, and Amy (Bob) McGibbon; his stepchildren, Karen (Chris) Geister and Cheryl Maher; his grandchildren, Airi, Whitney, Ava, Kennidy, Carter, and Harrison; his step-grandchildren, Geoffrey, Jake, Nick, and Colin; his great-grandchildren, Ema and Ren; his step-great-granddaughter, Kendelle; along with many other relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. Interment with military honors will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN. Arrangements are with Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.