Bill Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of William “Bill” Craig Smith, who left us peacefully on July 9, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on July 15, 1961, in Storm Lake, Iowa, Bill lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family.

Bill, a passionate self-employed drilling technician and operator, was deeply respected for his humble nature and genuine commitment to his work. He wholeheartedly took pride in being a steadfast provider for his family, approaching every challenge with unwavering diligence and integrity.

A devoted husband to his wife, Mary Claire Smith, and a strict yet very loving and proud father to his sons, Lance and LJ Smith. Bill’s family was the foundation and joy of his life. He was also cherished by Nicole Labos and Christine Dela Cruz, who will deeply miss his warmth, humor, and guidance. Bill had a Great Pyrenees and a Border Collie (Samson and Diesel) that will be standing guard, faithfully watching over the family, nevertheless they will greatly miss him. Bill was a strict disciplinarian, yet his guidance was always balanced with wit and warmth. He was full of clever jokes, timeless life lessons, wisdom that shaped those around him, and will continue to guide them throughout their lives. Bill's legacy lives on in the values he instilled, the love he gave, and the countless memories shared with those fortunate enough to have known him.

Bill was more than a brother, he was a constant source of support and steady guidance, especially to his brother Dave, who saw him as a second dad. Family and friends always knew they could reach out to him. He is grounded, genuine, and dependable, Bill was the kind of person you could count on without a second thought.

Bill was a charter member of Faith Lutheran Church that began in 2004. He along with his parents, Robert and Jeanette, were very faithful in attending worship services every Sunday. Bill and Claire were married in the church. Following their marriage, Bill encouraged Claire, Lance, and LJ to go through Luther's Small Catechism to become members of the congregation so the family could partake of the Lord's Supper together. Bill truly led his family by setting the example in his own life of faith in the Lord Jesus.

The Philippines held a special place in Bill’s heart, partly because his father had served in the Navy and was once assigned to Manila. Bill treasured family vacations and was deeply passionate about SCUBA diving—especially in Panglao Bohol, where the underwater world captivated him like nowhere else. This profound love for diving there inspired him to often take trips to the country where he even built a home. Beyond his adventurous spirit, Bill also loved shooting with his family and cherishing those moments spent together. He was also a proud Kansas City Chiefs fan and never missed a game.

Bill was preceded in death by: Robert Smith, Jeanette Smith.

Bill is survived by his loving wife: Mary “Claire” Smith; children: Lance (Nicole Labos) Smith and LJ (Christine Dela Cruz) Smith; brothers: Robert Frank and David Allen; sister: Laurie Catherine Hawkins; nephews: Austin Smith and Nelson Davis Acuff; niece: Sarah Catherine Acuff; as well as many more relatives and friends.

As we remember William “Bill” Craig Smith, we honor a man of great character, an advocate of love and faith, and a devoted family man. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Bill’s life will be commemorated with a memorial service at the Faith Lutheran Church on July 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Prior to this, there will be a public viewing at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home - Winterset Chapel on July 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Family will be present from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.