Glenn Otis Smith

Glenn Otis Smith, 87, of Chetek passed away peacefully on Friday, October 3, 2014 in his home surrounded by his family.  Glenn was born April 8, 1927 in Sac County Iowa.  He graduated from Sac City High School, then enlisted in the Navy at the age of 18.  On May 16, 1948, he married Marcella Marie Weitzel.  Their first dairy operation was a small acreage in Sac City before moving to Alta, Iowa to be a herdsman for a larger Holstein dairy operation. In 1969 he moved to Wisconsin, just east of Dallas, where he spent the next 27 years building a Registered Holstein herd. He was very proud when several Hemjord Holsteins were purchased by dairymen in France and Japan. In 2010 Glenn and Marcella moved from the farm to a home in Chetek.

Glenn had many interests, but dairying was his greatest passion.  As an AI Technician for ABS and 4-H leader in his hometown, he traveled around Sac County promoting the dairy program for the Sac County Fair.  He enjoyed being a member of the Wisconsin Almena Holstein Club for most of his years in Wisconsin. He enthusiastically promoted a growing draft horse show for the Barron County Fair where he was a board member and/or president for 15 years. He also served on the Barron County Electric Board for 13 years.

Glenn was a WWII history enthusiast and a prominent veteran supporter.  His passion for his country dominated many conversations throughout his life.  Glenn also loved to play 500 and was an avid cribbage player.

Glenn is survived by his wife of 66 years, Marcella, three children: son Steven (Debra) Smith of Prescott, WI, son Bruce (Pam) Smith of Casa Grande, AZ and daughter Marilyn (Steven) McDonald of Star, ID, 6 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, one sister, Florence Strong, and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Gary and John, and 4 brothers.

Visitation will be at the Funeral Home in Chetek on Wednesday October 8, 2014 from 3-6pm with a service beginning at 6pm. He will be laid to rest in Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner on Thursday, October 9 at 2pm.  Please meet at the Cemetery.

The Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Chetek has been entrusted with arrangements.