Buster David Smith's Obituary
Oak Creek, formerly of Racine - Buster David Smith, 95, passed away at Ascension Hospital in Franklin, on April 8, 2024.
Buster was born in Fargo, North Dakota, on July 11, 1928, to the late Burt and Elizabeth (nee Deschel) Smith. Buster spent his formative years in Chippewa Falls, where he began working at the tender age of twelve while attending school. His dedication to hard work and service led him to enlist in the United States Army on November 13, 1946. He served as a Military Police Officer in Germany during World War II and was honorably discharged on May 4, 1948, with the rank of Corporal.
Upon returning to the United States at his former stomping grounds in Chippawa Falls, Buster settled in Racine, seeking employment. He found work at Oster Manufacturing Company, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Judith Faye Peck. The couple exchanged vows in Racine on July 18, 1959, and enjoyed 64 years of marriage.
Buster's career was marked by dedication and longevity. He spent 29 years employed at J.I. Case and also served as a school bus driver for Flash Cab Company for many years before retiring in 1992. Buster was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. He also held memberships in the J.I. Case 20 Year Club and the UAW Union – Local 180.
In his leisure time, Buster cherished the simplicity of life, returning to his roots in Chippewa Falls for fishing and camping. He was an avid bowler. He was skilled at creating delicious meals from minimal ingredients. He also delighted in driving his moped around town in search of lost treasures. Buster epitomized diligence, affection, and a gentle disposition. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his roles as a diligent father to his three sons and as a devoted caregiver to his wife in her recent years.
Buster will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife, Judith; children: David (Kris) Smith, Gregory (Holly) Smith, and Jeffery (Jodi) Smith; grandchildren: Jessica (Jason) Hendrickson, Andrea, Aaron, Haley, Zachary, Peyton, and Kaeden Smith; great-grandchildren: MacKenzie, Dade, Graysen, and Maryam; sisters-in-law, Jean Thielen and Mary Peck; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Buster was preceded in death by his parents, Burt and Elizabeth Smith; sisters, Barbara and Delores Smith; and brother, Willard Smith.
A celebration of Buster's life will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, located at 6400 Spring Street, Mount Pleasant, WI 53406, on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am, officiated by Fr. Yamid Blonco. A committal service with full military honors will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to either St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church or Oak Park Place Senior Living Oak Creek. Online condolences and memories of Buster can be shared at www.wilsonfuneralhomeinc.com.
The Smith family wishes to convey their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at Ascension Hospital Franklin and Oak Park Place Senior Living for their exceptional compassion and care provided to Buster during his final days.
As we bid farewell to Buster David Smith, his legacy of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication resonates deeply within our hearts. Though he may have departed from our midst, his spirit remains eternally enshrined in the memories of those whose lives he touched.
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