In the mid 1970s, I was a teenager and it was mostly just him and me at home. He anxiously taught me to drive, to put gas in the tank, and check my oil and wiper fluid. He welcomed 6 of my girlfriends to join us camping, hiking, jeeping, singing around the campfire, and eating all the snacks and meals he himself bought and cooked for us at his desert ranch. He kept the rattlers away, and shared his stories when we let him get a word in. He enjoyed us, gave us space, and shared his special love for 'his desert'.  I don't know many men who would be so gracious to a gaggle of teen girls, but my dad was generous and kind in just that way.  

He was kind, hospitable and a quiet man who was very proud of my brother and of me.  He loved us.

Much of my father's life is not represented in this memorial.  He richly shaped my life. As a little girl he taught me to trust, to ride a bike, to properly sweep, pull weeds, bait a hook, and reel in my catch surely and gently. By watching him I learned to plant spring flowers and sow vegetable seeds, to be consistent in caring for your possessions and surroundings. To walk quietly through nature taking in the forest and the tree, shrub and sprout.  He named each wildflower, igniting a passion that I still have. He taught me to keep so still that the wild critters would come near and let you share their secret world. He nurtured my great love of nature with his own and he gifted us fabulous summer vacations all over the southwest, that he provided our family to explore the beautiful wild places.  They were the best of times.

Dear Judy and Family,

I didn't know of Bud's passing until a couple of months ago when I was looking for Bud's address and came upon his obituary.   So, I was reminded yesterday that it was a year ago of your loss by Dignity Memorial Obituaries.   

As a new female land surveyor in a male dominated field at Caltrans, Bud made me feel valued and welcome.  He not only welcomed me into the Land Surveyors office at Caltrans, but also into into his family.   My husband David and I have many cherished memories of times with Bud and his family and friends.  Those times included July 4th pool parties, upland game hunting South of Essex and New Year's Eve parties to name a few.  

After moving to the Central Coast of California, we lost touch with Bud and his family, but never the loving memories.  

Bud will always be with us in gratitude, spirit and love.  

Sarah and David Chesebro

Rest in peace my dear brother.  I will miss you and take comfort that you are with our parents and brother Bob in heaven.  
Nadine Smith

In 2012 my Uncle Bud came to visit our family us in Big Bear when we rented a cabin.  We had the best time playing cards and sharing stories.   My mom talks often about the times when she and her brothers  (Bud and Robert) spent time at the Smith ranch in Milpitas, California.   We will all miss Bud and keep his family in our prayers.  May Gods angle army carry Bud to his place in heaven and his memory shine in our hearts.  
Craig Griebel  and family. 
Melinda, Alex, Nadine Smith 

OBITUARY

Rensselaer J. Smith III

September 6, 1932 – July 21, 2020

Montecito Memorial Park and Mortuary

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services