Chester A. 'Chet' 'Spike' Smith, Jr. 71, Minot, died Thursday, May 03, 2018, in a Minot hospital.

Spike was born April 23, 1947 to Chester A. and Hazel C. (Finneman) Smith. He grew up in Minot and was employed at the A&W and Red Owl during his youth. He received his education at Minot High School graduating with the class of 1965. He enlisted into the US Army where he held an active duty position from November 1966 to April 1968 and then was a reserve member from October 1970 to October 1972.

Spike was united in marriage to Mary Kay Nielsen on July 1, 1972 in First Lutheran Church, Minot. They made their lifelong home in Minot and were blessed with two daughters.

Chet began his 37-year career with the Great Northern Railroad in 1970. During his railroad years, he rode from Minot to Glasgow, Montana and back as a switchman/brakeman. He completed his career in 2007 retiring from (then BNSF) at Gavin Yard.

Throughout his life, Spike was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed taking his boat on the water and hunting for upland game. Spike was a long-time member of the Minot Gun Club, where he was active in trap shooting, and won many city championships. He enjoyed spending his retirement days with his buddies at the Capri in Minot, discussing the news around town and monitoring the weather. He loved animals and doted on pet cats and dogs throughout the years. Spike was devoted to his family; a uncomplicated, loyal and quiet man, he provided unwavering love and support to those close to him. He will be missed deeply by all who called him dad, grandpa, husband and friend.

Chet's loving family includes his wife of 45 years, Mary Smith, Minot; daughters, Jennifer Libby (Christopher) Claerbout, Minot and SaraBeth (Nathan) Wanzek, San Francisco, CA; grandchildren, Amelia and Evelyn Claerbout and Adler and Emmett Wanzek and sister, Susan Hill of Oklahoma.

Chet was preceded in death by his parents.

Celebration of Chet's Life: 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 7, 2018 at First Lutheran Church, Minot.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 6, 2018, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.