Joseph E. Smith

Joseph E. Smith, age 71, passed away on May 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 6, 1952, in Farmington, MN, to Bernard and Irene (Landsberger) Smith. Joe grew up in Hampton, MN, and graduated from Hastings in 1970. He married Jackie Lien in 1972, and together they had two children, Brian and Tammy.

A man of many passions, Joe was a nature lover, coin collector, and a dedicated sports fan, with a special love for the Twins and Timberwolves. He enjoyed spending time at the casino, trap shooting, bowling, playing darts, and cherished the beauty of simple things like taking long drives early in the morning to watch the sun rise. Joe always looked forward to heading up north to Iron River, WI, over the 4th of July with his family.

Joe had a positive outlook on life, often teasing and giving people a hard time in good spirits. He dedicated over 30 years of his life working at the local flour mill as a blender and a truck driver. In his later years, he found joy in spending time with his family and creating lasting memories with them.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Irene, and his brother, James Smith. He is survived by his children, Tammy Bussert and Brian (Katy) Smith; his spouse, Jackie Smith; grandchildren: Thomas, Kylee, Kaci, and Sami; siblings: Charles (Linda) Smith, Mary (Tom) Erickson, and Ray (Chris) Smith; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A visitation in memory of Joe will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at St. Mathias Catholic Church, 23315 Northfield Blvd, Hampton, MN 55031, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at St. Mathias Catholic Cemetery following the service.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the funeral arrangements.