CHARLES V. "CHUCK" SMITH III

Charles V. "Chuck" Smith III, 66, formerly of Duluth, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 5, 2013 due to complications after surgery in Fargo, N.D.

Chuck was born Dec. 18, 1946 in St. Paul, to Viola and Charles Smith II.

He grew up in Pengilly and Duluth, graduating from East High School in 1964. Chuck attended the University of Minnesota Duluth for a time after high school and then enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1965. He served his country honorably in the Philippines during the Vietnam War in 1968. Chuck continued his military service with the Minnesota Air National Guard, retiring in 1991 with over 22 years of service.

Anyone who knew Chuck quickly realized he was an avid outdoorsman, spending as much time as he could hunting and fishing. He was happiest in the woods or on the water with his family. During his life he worked for Jeno’s, City of Duluth, FAA, Jayen and for the last few years with the wonderful people at J. Carlson Services, Inc.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Kelly and best friend Joey Rutter.

He is survived by his loving wife Patty Smith of Jamestown, N.D.; sons Charlie (Shannon) Smith of Hermantown, Minn., Matt (Kathy) Smith of Maplewood, Minn., and Jared Smith of Superior, Wis.; grandchildren Charles V, Grace, Camryn, Will and Zach and former step daughters Alexis, Madison, and Bailey.

His kind heart, gentle ways and contagious laugh will be missed by all.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15, 2013 in Peace in Christ Lutheran Church, 5007 Maple Grove Road, Hermantown, MN 55811.

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