Bud Smith

Buddy Raymond Smith (Bud) - 76 - of Denver, Colorado, peacefully entered into rest on February 14th, 2014. He went to be with his Valentine Lynda Dean Smith (Taylor) who preceded him in death in 2003. He is survived by 3 Children Buddy Ralph Smith (Marie) of West Chester, Ohio, Cynthia Ray Wisor, of Colorado, and Andrew Dean Smith Sr. (Susan) of Littleton, Colorado, 8 Grandchildren, Evan Smith, Erin Smith, Stuart Smith, Alexander Wisor, Tyler Wisor, Daniel Wisor, Hailey Smith, and Andrew Smith Jr., 2 brothers Ronald Smith of Denver, CO and Richard Smith of Redlands, CA. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Ronald (Jack) Smith, Ruth Mae Smith (Swearengin) and 2 siblings Herbert Smith and Lola Mae Murphy (Smith). Bud excelled at everything he did throughout his life, he was a fantastic athlete who played football, baseball and basketball but football was by far his first love of sports. He played from childhood clear through adulthood in the Marine Corps, where he was Captain of the football team and the face of the Marine Corps presence in spearheading the first "Toy Bowl" now better know as "Toys for Tots". He went on to become a Master Mason which was his career until retirement. Bud was a loving and committed family man to his children and grandchildren as well as a mentor to the children that he coached and financially sponsored over several decades including recently, always offering guidance when attending a little league sporting event. You can enjoy visiting several prominent locations throughout the Denver Metro area where Bud laid his mark in brick and mortar, including the Faith Bible Chapel in Arvada. After his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps Bud was a walk on for the 1960 Denver Broncos. Although he only played in three preseason games it was an experience that he considered one of his greatest achievements. Bud lived a full rich life and was loved and respected by many, in fact those that knew him well would agree that he always had a huge smile, handshake or hug and a great story to tell you. A truly kind, giving, and unforgettable man. Distance could never sever Buds commitment to his relationships of those he loved dearly, in fact he maintained his best friendship with a phone call every few days to his brother Rich living in California. He will be missed without question, however, he has left each of us with so many parts of him that he would consider that to be his proudest legacy.