Howard Russel Smith

Howard Russel Smith was born on April 19, 1947, to Lois Robb Smith and Russel Lynn Smith. Howard grew up with a quick wit and a love of sports that stayed with him throughout his life. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves and later built a long and dedicated career with AMSCO Windows, where he was known for his reliability, humor, and appreciation for hard work.

After scoring state championship touchdowns for Highland High School in 1963, Howard married Karen Conder in 1969. Together they shared a lifetime of adventures. They made their home in Millcreek beginning in 1979, creating a life filled with family, friends, and travel—one of their greatest shared joys.

Howard was a devoted, and at times stern, father to his three children:

• Matthew Russel Smith (56) and his wife Marijane, and their children Parker (Michael), Carsen, Zander, and River

• Christine Smith (51)

• Aaron Dean Smith (49) and his wife Faisa, and their children Sameera and Isaiah and son Harrison (mother Marcie).

He is also survived by his brothers, Cory Smith (Paula) of Houston, Texas, and Terry Smith of Utah. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Debbi Livingston, who passed away in 2024.

Howard loved his family deeply. He cherished the many cousins and aunts he knew from the family farm in Duchesne, Utah, and he carried a lifelong admiration for the people and values that shaped him there. Some of his family’s most treasured memories include watching him fly kites with the kids, tossing balls around in the yard, and sharing special trips to Disneyland, where they enjoyed their time together.

Howard loved golf with a passion. He could be found at Forest Dale every week, playing in the men’s league and building strong, lasting friendships with his golfing buddies. Utah sports were another constant in his life; he cheered, celebrated, and occasionally groaned right along with the rest of the faithful.

Howard will be remembered for his humor, his warmth, and his spirited nature. He never shied away from a good debate, especially when it came to politics, and he approached those conversations with the same passion he brought to everything in his life. Those who knew him understood that this fire was simply part of who he was, and they loved him for it.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wasatch Lawn Memorial.