John Smith

John Blair "{Jack}" Smith died on November 22, 2017 in Casper at the age of 80 surrounded by his loving family. Jack is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary C. Smith; son Andy and wife Carolyn of Laramie; and daughter Jona Irvine and her husband Jerry of Casper. Four granddaughters - Megan "Smith" Smerud and her husband Patrick of Laramie; Anna Smith of Laramie; Ashlie "Taylor" Delach and her husband Steven of Casper; and Cortnie "Taylor" Elrod and her husband Chris also of Casper. Seven great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Inez and Chuck Smith of Casper. Jack was born on September 18, 1937 in Denver, Colorado and moved to Casper with his family in 1951. Jack graduated from Natrona County High School in 1955. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy and after serving three years he was honorably discharged and returned to Casper where he met his wife Mary. They married on June 6, 1959, in Casper. After his discharge he began working for Schlumberger as a field hand. He then moved onto the tire industry and worked for Wilson General Tire and Construction Tire Service and several other off-road tire distributors as a salesman and tire technician. In 1984 they relocated to Grants, New Mexico where he worked at Lee Ranch Mine. They relocated to Winnemucca, Nevada and worked for Newmont Gold where he continued his work in the mines. After retirement from Newmont, Jack and Mary returned to Casper in 1998. Jack was an avid sports fan who diligently followed the Colorado Rockies and the Denver Broncos. He had a passion for baseball and coached Little League baseball for six years. Jack thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jack's favorite times were the family gatherings enjoyed during the holidays and any other time of the year when everyone could get together. He especially enjoyed his 80th birthday celebration in September and watching the Solar Eclipse in August. Jack was a very kind and loving individual who always made sure to say "I Love You" before anyone left the house. He will always be remembered for his humor that had others laughing and his very positive attitude toward any obstacle in life. A funeral service is scheduled for Wednesday, November 29th at 11:00 at Oregon Trail Veteran's Cemetery. A reception will follow at the family home at 2719 Palmer Drive. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jack's life. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends a donation to Casper Youth Baseball or Shriners Hospital for Children.