James Charles Smith
September 06, 2021
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Service Details
Jim C. Smith, a.k.a. “Smitty from the City” passed away at the age of 77 at the VA Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. Jim was born in Guthrie Center to Boyd and Phyllis (Yanske) Smith on January 14, 1944. He was a proud lifetime East Sider, and graduated from Des Moines Tech in 1962. Jim proudly served his country in Vietnam, where he was exposed to Agent Orange.
Jim worked for Marquette printing, and the City of Des Moines for thirty years. He retired in 2002, to spend more time with his family and friends. Jim enjoyed playing poker with friends, shooting pool, and mentoring and coaching others. Jim would help anyone out who needed it.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Karen; sister’s, JoAnn Morey, Jeannette (Jim) Russell; niece’s, Jody (Stoney) Stonehocker, Lea Ann (Phil) Gale; great nephew, Mick Noble; and numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Boyd Smith Jr.; great nephew Mitch Blanchard; and great niece, Bailey Rae Oltrogge.
Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 15, 2021, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street in Des Moines with visitation an hour prior, and will conclude with burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Des Moines.
Cindy Williams
10/03/2021
I was so sorry to hear that Smitty passed away. I knew him from all those years at the City of Des Moines. Many a day I would go down to the Print Shop and need something printed stat! He would rush a print job and bring it up to me when it was done. He was a perfectionist in his work. If he saw an error on a print job, he would call it to my attention and make sure I fixed it! He was one of the kindest and most generous men Ive ever known. He would do anything for you or find a way to make it happen. Deepest sympathy to Smittys wife, family and loved ones. He was one of a kind!
Mike Scione
09/15/2021
Smitty was a legend when can to telling a story. Played little league together, he tell you about a game in 1957,batter by batter. Going to miss those story and sitting at the races. Karen and family so sorry for your lost. my prayers are with you
Kevin Christensen
09/14/2021
To my Veteran brother, God's peace. Thank you for your service from a grateful nation. My condolences to the family and God's blessings.
Debbie Doppel
09/13/2021
Big Jim! Where do I begin? I have known you since you were a teen and then married my cousin Karen, aka Toodie .You were always the first to greet us at the airport when we flew into Des Moines. You took us to the Iowa State fair, the best restaurants, and the horse races. We even got to stand in the winner's circle one time (even though our horse didn't win). You knew every single sports team there ever was and their record. There will never be another like you. We love you and we'll miss you. May you rest in peace with our Lord .
Much love and many prayers for Toodie, Leann, Jodie and family.
From your Atlanta, Georgia cousins.
dick mccaulley
09/13/2021
Karen and entire Smith family: Karen, have known you and Jim for over 57 years. So many fond, loving memories. I have no words. You know how I feel about the two of you. Cant believe he's gone. I'm very sad today. We all lost a true friend. My most sincere and deepest thoughts are with you and your family. God Bless.
Pat Saffell
09/12/2021
Joanne and Jeanette so sorry to hear of your brothers passing. Pat and Don Saffell
Pam Schwartztrauber
09/12/2021
So sorry Jenntta and Joanne for the lost of your brother. You were both good sister. And you both love him very much. So sorry for your loss.
Jill McClellan
09/12/2021
So sad to see this. Jim was a true friend to all.
Sending comdolances to his bride and my high school friend Karen.
Robert Anderson
09/12/2021
what a friend. He was special grow up with him on the south side ,He was a life long friend and brought people together. He had a memory bank that you cant believe.he will be missed.God Bless and Prayers be with you karen
Neil leighter
09/10/2021
Smitty loved to bet the
Horses and play cards.
He lived life to the fullest.
He never met a stranger. We
were friends for over 30 years.
He will be missed by everyone
that really knew him. Condolences
To Karen and family. RIP my friend.
Denny OGrady
09/08/2021
My deepest condolences to wife Karen and family! Jim was a very close friend and was larger than life in my view! I will miss him greatly and wont be forgotten! RIP great friend!