Born two weeks prematurely in his grandparent’s home outside of Fryburg, ND, Roger started his life’s journey. At three years of age his family moved to a farm in rural Portland, ND where Roger attended his first 8 years of school at Roosevelt #3 school outside of Portland. Roger went on to graduate High School from Mayville High School. He joined the United States Army after graduation and served for 3 years, 2 of those in Germany.
Roger then returned to Portland where he met his future wife, Judith Ihnken, in 1958 and they married in 1960. Randy, their first child, was born in 1961 followed by Blake in 1964 and Harrold in 1969.
Roger worked for his father-in-law, Harry Ihnken, learning the electrical trade. He went on to obtain his Journeyman then his Master electrical license. Roger’s family lived several places, including Grand Forks, Phoenix, and eventually went back to Portland where he started his own electrical business, Smith Electric.
Roger retired from the electrical trade and worked at several other jobs including a tree moving business and as a substitute rural mail carrier. He retired from the USPS at the age of 67.
Roger and Judy moved to Arizona where they lived until relocating to Cody, WY in 2023 to be closer to their son, Blake
Survived by wife, Judith Smith, son Blake Smith, 10 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Alvina Smith, son Randy Smith and son Harry Smith.
Visitation: Will be one hour prior to the service at the chapel.
Funeral Service: 10:00 AM Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND.
Military Honors: May~Port Honor Guard and the North Dakota Military Funeral Honors.
Burial: Will be in the Roseville Cemetery in Portland, ND.
Visits: 470
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