Roger Smith

Roger Smith was born on March 17, 1945, on a farm near Chandler, MN to George and Johanna (Lolkus) Smith. He was raised on the family farm and attended school in Chandler, MN. He was a lifelong member of the Chandler Reformed Church.

Roger married Karen (Beckering) on April 22, 1965. They lived on an acreage near the family farm milking cows and raising hogs. He farmed with his brother until 1981. He then continued crop farming, raising hogs, stock cows and feeder cattle all on his own. He loved feeding livestock and going for rides to check his crops and animals. While the children were growing up, they enjoyed many adventures camping by Mankato and the Black Hills. He also loved riding motorcycles with family and friends, including many trips to Sturgis.

Roger was an avid hunter and trapper. He enjoyed deer and pheasant hunting with family and lifelong friends. He loved his children and grandchildren and treasured time watching the boys go hunting.

On May 12, Roger entered home hospice. He passed away on July 14, 2025 at 80 years of age.

Roger leaves behind his wife Karen of 60 years, as well as their three children and their families. Dawn Smith, Redfield SD, Linda (Billy) Wanamaker, New Brighton MN, Nathan (Jamie) Miller, Bryan (Debbie) Smith of Balaton MN, Spencer (Kaley), Cassidy (Will), & Trevor.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, George and Johanna Smith, siblings Adrian and Nancy Smith, brother-in-law, Harold Welgraven and nephew Heath Smith.

A visitation will be held at the Chandler Reformed Church in Chandler, MN on Thursday evening, July 17, from 5:00-7:00PM and a funeral service will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025 at the Chandler Reformed Church in Chandler, MN at 11:00AM. A private burial service will take place prior to the service.