Howard Smeby

*Please note updated service time*

Passed away on August 13, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kay; daughter, Sarah
(Ryan Schultz); brother, James (Fran) Smeby; in-laws, Cletus (Peggy) Ratigan, JoAnn (Allen)
Olson; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, John Dirks; sister, Patricia
Smeby; sister/brother-in-law, Phyllis (Sid) Tull. Howard was born in Blooming Prairie and
raised in Moscow, MN.  He graduated from Albert Lea High School.  During his school years
he was very active in the Moscow Lutheran Church, 4H and FFA.  His awards at the Freeborn
County Fair won him trips to the Minnesota State Fair Grounds every year with his 4H projects
and cattle.  After graduation Howard moved to St. Paul, MN.  He enlisted in the Navy and went
to California for boot camp.  He was honorably discharged due to medical reasons.  Shortly
after his Navy discharge, he returned to Minnesota to begin his trucking career.  He loved to be
on the open road and to experience what our beautiful country has to offer.  He boasted often
how he has been to all the lower 48 states but really preferred the western U.S. for its beauty
and open highways (no toll roads).  His work with US Steel brought him to Canada often and he
loved that dedicated run.  While living in Falcon Heights he was a volunteer fire fighter and was
president of the Falcon Heights/Lauderdale Lions Club where community service was a
priority.  He earned his certification for heating and air conditioning and began working with
Skelgas, which prompted the family move to Hudson, WI.  Howard enjoyed wood working and
the home in Hudson came with a second garage for his wood shop.  He created many things for
family and friends.  Over the road was calling him again and he returned to trucking with
Republic Express.  He made many trips to California and delivered goods safely.  An
opportunity came along for him to drive charter bus after his wife retired and together they went
on several trips including trips to Canada for fishing.  Howard ended his driving career with
school bus driving.  He was a substitute bus driver and knew all the routes.  He enjoyed grilling
and the food was always amazing.  He loved his animals both dogs and cats. He spent the last
couple years at Boutwells Landing after suffering several strokes. Howard was full of humor
and always had a mischievous twinkle in his eye.  He will be missed.