Barry R. Smith

Barry Raymond Smith, 63 of Hayfield, MN died Sunday November 4th, 2012, in Palisade Minnesota. He was born November 4th, 1949 in Rochester, MN to Donovan and Irene (Crowson) Smith. Barry grew up in Rochester and graduated from John Marshall High.He entered the United States Army in 1968, served our country in Vietnam and was the recipient of a Purple Heart Medal.Barry returned to vocational college in Rochester and completed Building Utility Maintenance training, worked as a plumber at St. MarysHospital for 35+ years. Upon retirement from Mayo Clinic in December of 2010, he became a snowbird with his wife and they lived between Mesa, Arizona , their summer home in Palisade, Minnesota, and their residence in Hayfield. His hobbies included: hunting/dogs, fishing, and being Up Nort. While wintering in Arizona he became a rock/lapidary hound, and a rattle snake wrangler. He loved spending time with his family and teaching them how to enjoy the outdoors. Survivors include: his loving wife Barbara of 41 years, his children Jebadiah and Jessica Smith, both of Rochester; he was a proud grandfather of Donovan & Ethan Smith, and a grandson to be born in March 2013; sister, Dianna (Bruce) Thompson of Phoenix, AZ; brother, Steve (Connie) Smith of Rochester, MN; step-sister Joan Cross of Rochester, MN; numerous nieces and nephews whom lovingly referred to him as Uncle Buzzard. Barry was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to his family, Barry was loved by many longtime friends, co-workers, hunting buddies, and small children whom thought he was Santa Claus. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, November 10, with the memorial service starting at 11:00 am, followed by a military salute and light luncheon at the Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home in Rochester, MN. 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901