Roderic D. Smith, 88, Cambridge, formerly of Remer

November 29, 1927 - January 21, 2016

Roderic D. Smith, age 88, of Remer, Minnesota, died Thursday, January 21, 2016 at GracePointe Crossings East in Cambridge, surrounded by his loving family and best friend and caregiver, Melissa Timmer.

Roderic Dhu Smith was born on November 29, 1927 in Palo Alto, California, son of Robert F. and Laura (Bohn) Smith. Rod grew up and was educated in St. Paul, graduating from Central High School. He served as a “Seabee” in the United States Navy during World War II. Rod married his sweetheart, Jeanne Ann Weimer, on May 12, 1951 at St. Luke's Catholic Church in St. Paul. They made their home in Highland Park and Rod worked in sales at Northern States Power for over 30 years. Rod and Jeanne enjoyed their lake place on Little Bass Lake near Remer and following Rod's retirement, they made it their year-round home.

Rod’s love for his wife, Jeanne, was immense and he missed her dearly since her death in 2012. Rod was an avid sports lover; he coached women’s softball, was a goal judge for MN Fighting Saints, played softball for St. Paul Como Rec, and loved to play golf at the Ridgewood Golf Course at Longville with Jeanne. Many memories were made while duck hunting with his friend, Rod. “Twins are #1!” Rod’s hundreds of hats defined his love for sports. “It made his day when you gave him a new hat.” His dogs, Scooter, Willie, Woody and his daughters’ dog, Sophie, were special to him.

He is survived by his three daughters and one son, Sandy (Bruce) Edlund of Eden Prairie, Debbie Smith of Princeton, Jan Smith of Princeton, and Michael (Jane) Smith of Maple Plain; two grandchildren, Colin and Mallory Smith.

Rod was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne; and an infant daughter, Lynda Gail Smith in 1957.

A Graveside Service will be held at 1PM on Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, 7601 34th Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55450. Meet at Assembly Area #2.