Raymond L. “Ray” Smith, age 76 of North Platte, passed away July 7, 2016 at Centennial Park Retirement Village following a courageous battle with cancer.
Ray was born in Paxton, NE on July 18, 1939 to Raymond and Agnes (Sedlacek) Smith. He later made his home in North Platte where he married Sharon Fisher. To this union was born two sons and four daughters. On May 27, 1978 he married the love of his life, Joan Larsen-Knox. He made his living throughout the years as a mechanic, roofer, road worker, and heating and air conditioning sheet metal worker. In his early years he spent his time hunting, fishing, and camping with his friends and family.
Ray is survived by his wife of 38 years, Joan, of North Platte; sons, Jim (Lori) Smith, Ted Knox (Dee); daughters, Karen (Ron) Hepler, Judy (Tom) Hanna, Chris Gifford, and Jackie (Jeff) Kelley; nine grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; siblings, Coleen Savage, Merril Smith, Anita Brooks, and Donald (Velma) Smith; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two infant sisters; his infant son Raymond; and granddaughter Melissa Diehl.
Memorials are suggested to the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. Services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday July 13, 2016 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home with Reverend C.P. Varghese officiating. Burial will follow at North Platte Cemetery. Visitation will be from noon until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday July 12, 2016 at Adams and Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.