Dean Smith
August 29, 1935 - January 28, 2016
Obituary
Dean C. Smith, 80, of Billings passed away January 28, 2016, after a short illness. He was born August 8, 1935, in Lame Deer, Montana, the son of Houston and Margaret Hensel Smith. He grew up in Lame Deer, later moving to Bozeman where he graduated high school and then attended college at MSU. After graduating with a Zoology degree, Dean taught in California for fourteen years. He continued his teaching career at Billings West High School and the Career Center. Dean was both active in and supportive of Zoo Montana and the Audubon Society. He was a master gardener. Both family and friends benefited from his great talent. Dean is survived by his wife Jessica; four step-daughters, Stephanie (Joe) Booth of Billings, Danielle Durnell of South Dakota, Julie (Rich) Welding of North Dakota, and Andrea (Jihad) Durnell of Pennsylvania; grandchildren Jenna, Jessica, Curt, Riley, Zach, Madelyn and Yara; five great-grandchildren; brother Bob Smith of California; sister Pat (Donn) Bruggeman; sister-in-law Sharon Gae Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by both parents and his brother, Richard “Dick” Smith. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Dahl Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
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Memories
DK
David Klarich
Other •
I was so sorry to read of Dean's passing. My condolences. I got to know Dean as a science teacher in the Billings school system. What a sweet man! We shared a mutual concern for the environment - and for students.
JM
John Miller
Other •
Dean was a great friend whom I considered a mentor for how to live life, treat others, educate, and care for the Earth. Perhaps the most important lessons learned from him were to laugh and not take oneself too seriously and to be kind to all life. Rest in Peace my friend.
BT
Bernice Toldness
Other •
Dean was one of my favorite people who I worked with at the Career Center and had helped with his flower sales. He always made it a point to say hello to me here at the Lincoln, when he was subbing for us here at School District 2 and would come down to our building. He will sorely missed . Rest in Peace my friend.
RW
RJ Waggoner
Other •
As a teacher, friend, and neighbor, Dean has blessed my life with many fond memories. The experiences I had through his Urban Ag classes have continued to this day and also led me a career in Horticulture. His gentle nature and enthusiasm for his craft were evident as he taught, he will be missed. God bless you, may you Rest in Peace.
BS
Bill Shikany
Other •
I have such good memories of Dean. Our West faculty and students were fortunate to have had him as a teacher and colleague. Dean was a kind man. May he rest in peace. Peace be with his family. Peace on earth. Bill Shikany
SF
Scott Cox & Family
Other •
Jessica and family, we are so sorry to hear about Dean. Haven't seen him in some time, but he always made us smile. We will miss him!