Dr. Russell 'Rusty/Russ' James Smith D.V.M.

Dr. Russell "Rusty/Russ" James Smith D.V.M., 56 of Glasgow, Mont., passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2015, in Salt Lake City of heart complications.

He was born in Columbus, Mont., on Dec. 22, 1958. He was the only child to Margot (Mundell) Smith and Clarence James Smith.

He attended school in Red Lodge until fourth grade. His family then moved to Casper, Wyo., where he graduated from Natrona County High School in 1977. He then attended Casper College for two years and completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wyoming, finishing with a bachelor of science degree in 1981. He continued on with his education to earn his doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University in 1985.

He met Kathleen Ann Farmer in March of 1978, and their 33-year marriage began on June 5, 1982. They were blessed with two sons, Brady James Smith of Salt Lake City and Corey Allen Smith of Bozeman.

He and Kathy moved to Glasgow in June of 1985 to begin their careers, as his desire was to work a mixed animal practice in a rural setting. By 1991 he became a partner, later purchasing the Glasgow Veterinary Clinic in 1993. He was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, served on the Montana Veterinary State Board, and the Wells Fargo Board.

He was very active in the community. He coached his sons in football, basketball, baseball and soccer. He was a supporter of numerous organizations, including the Scottie Booster Club, 4-H, Focus on the Family, Montana Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Fort Peck Summer Theatre.

He had a variety of interests including boating, kayaking, hunting, skiing, whitewater rafting and fishing. He enjoyed traveling with family and friends, dabbling in the stock market and was a diehard Broncos' fan.

He was a loving husband and father. He will be remembered for his kind, caring and gentle nature.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

Survivors include his mother, Margot Smith, of Casper, Wyo.; his wife, Kathy Smith, of Glasgow; and two sons, Brady Smith of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Corey Smith of Bozeman.

Visitation took place Friday, Oct. 2, beginning at 1 p.m. Family received from 4-6 p.m., with a sharing taking place beginning at 6 p.m. at the Bell Mortuary. Services were held Saturday, Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. at St. Raphael's Parish in Glasgow, followed by burial at Highland Cemetery.

Condolences may be made at bellmortuarymontana.com.

Bell Mortuary of Glasgow was in charge of arrangements.