Thomas Robert Smith of Leighton Township died Aug. 15. He was 68.
Tom was born Aug. 20, 1952, to Bryce and Mary Ellen Smith in Caledonia, where he lived his whole life. Tom was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved farming and was proud to continue passing the family farm to the next generations. He was known for his sweet corn, and maple syrup as well as producing high quality crops in the area.
He enjoyed traveling, watching his grandkids participate in sports and 4-H, and just visiting with friends and family. He was always there to help those who needed something.
He is survived by his wife, Ora Lou Smith; his five children, Roger (Donna) Folkema, Val (Mike) Lepeak, Julie (Chris) Kaboos, Tim (Mary) Smith, and Ed (Sherri) Smith; his 18 grandchildren; his sister-in-law Margaret Smith, and his sister, Diane (Don) Blain.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bryce and Mary Ellen Smith; his brother John Smith; his grandson, John Thomas Smith, and great-grandson Elijah Wayne Kaboos.
A celebration of life service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, at Leighton Church, 4180 2nd St. SE, with Rev. Dave McBride officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church.
Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Faith Hospice or Leighton Church.
An outstanding friend and citizen taken to the Father way too soon. Always a guy with a smile, kind word, and optimist. His glass was half full all the time. God bless Tom, his family, and friends.