James W. “Smitty” Smith, 79, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Saturday afternoon, May 26, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, Dubuque.

According to Jim’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. Private family services will be Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque, IA.

Jim was born on December 29, 1938 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Leonard and Frances (Hartmann) Smith. He was united in marriage to Joan Gansen in May of 1960, she preceded him in death.

Jim retired from John Deere Dubuque Works after 30 years of service. He was a former member of U.A.W. Local # 94.

He loved his family and lived life to the fullest.

Surviving are his children, Julie (Jake) Belken, Jean (Craig) Jackson, and Jim (Lisa) Smith; grandchildren, Jacob (Kim) Belken, Joey (Bridget) Belken, Alan and Matthew Jackson, Keith Smith and Kim (Brandon) Maro; great-grandchildren; his siblings, Joan (Dick) Czipar, Jean Reynolds, Bob (Judy) Smith, Pat and Tom Smith; step-children, Lynne, Connie and Steve.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Joan, a brother Mike and his ex-wife Judie Smith.

Jim’s family would like to thank the Menominee-Dunleith first responders, the East Dubuque Ambulance and the Emergency Room personnel at Finley Hospital for their efforts and support, in our time of need.