James Smith

James "Jim" Vincent Smith, age 70 of Sartell passed away Monday, Dec. 14, 2020 after unexpectedly falling ill and losing his fight to COVID 19. He was born on Oct. 8, 1950 in Sleepy Eye to Mildred "Millie" (Sellner) and Vincent Smith. Jim will greatly be missed by his loving wife of 48 years Bonita "Bunny" (Haas), daughters: Robin (Jeff) Rabey of Prior Lake with sons: Beau and Luke, Bobbi Jo Nash of Prior Lake with children: Jackson, Carter and Taylor Nash. He was preceded in death by his parents along with stepfather Lyle "Red" Baker; grandparents: Edward J. and Mathilda (Seidl) Sellner. Jim grew up in St. James and later Sleepy Eye, attending and graduating from St. Mary's High School. After graduation, he joined the Marines and soon after married Bunny Haas on October 7, 1972. Jim was retired these past eight years but had worked various jobs throughout his life which included: semi driving, security and service type jobs, along with opening his own radiator repair shop. He treasured spending time with his family. He was a proud and strong man. God blessed him with the gift of strength. He used this gift to help others throughout his life until the very end before falling ill in recent weeks. It gave him great pleasure to lend a helping hand to so many without being asked. He said this time spent working alone allowed him to reflect back on past memories of family and friends that he loved dearly. He shared many wonderful memories of growing up with his aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was a very loving person who was a good friend to all. He enjoyed telling jokes and reminiscing about the past. He lived his life by always staying true to himself. He was generous with his time and money. He led a life of serving others and was not materialistic in any way. He knew just how to make others feel important and special. He built many friendships with those he crossed paths with. For over a year and a half, he volunteered his time to take a dear friend to his chemotherapy treatments where he would sit with him the entire time to help pass the time each week until his passing. His favorite monthly donation charities were St. Jude Children's and Shriners hospitals along with many other charities when a need would arise. It was not uncommon for him to hand mom a 20 dollar bill so she could extend this to a young family with children that looked to be in need. He was a man with a big heart and openly shared his love daily with his wife, kids, and grandchildren. His love, service, and small acts of kindness is what will be remembered most and continue in his legacy. Service Information 11:00 am Saturday, June 5, 2021 St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery 720 3rd Ave. N.E. Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, United States 56085 Graveside Service Interment Information St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery 720 3rd Ave. N.E. Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, United States 56085 Reception Will be held in the St. Mary's School Cafeteria after the service.