Gary Eugene Smith

Gary Eugene Smith, 83, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away on July 17, 2026. Visitation will be held at Weerts Funeral Home, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 10 to 11 am. A funeral service will follow beginning at 11 am. Gary will be laid to rest at Davenport Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's United Methodist Church. Online, condolences and fond memories may be expressed at www.WeertsFH.com

Gary was born on July 27, 1942, in Washington, Iowa, to Martha (Hendrickson) and Merle Smith. He graduated from Washington High School and grew up alongside one sister and one brother—together the “three stooges,” as they fondly referred to themselves.

Gary moved to Davenport to begin a long and steady career with Alcoa. Over 41 years of dedicated work, he spent 29 years as a laminator in the foil mill. After retiring from Alcoa, Gary continued to keep busy for many years working part-time at Menards.

On January 29, 1964, Gary married Virginia (Stransky) and went on to share many years together, building a life rooted in the values they carried from their farm upbringings. Together they raised two beloved sons, Rod and Dean. Virginia preceded Gary in death in 2011.

Gary’s interests reflected a quiet enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures and well-earned pursuits. He had a love for antique cars and tractors, and he especially enjoyed attending garage sales—always ready to negotiate a good price. He participated in multiple RAGBRAIs, and enjoyed a casual bicycle ride as well.

A lifelong member of St. John’s United Methodist Church, Gary remained connected to his faith community over the years. Reserved and a man of few words, he was known for a genuine kindness—a heart of gold that was felt more than it was announced.

Those left to honor his memory include his sons, Rod (Lisa) Smith and Dean (Brenda) Smith; grandchildren, Nicole (George), Kathleen (Danny), Michael (Angie), Kayla (Jaydon), Courtney (Shaden), Madison (Lincoln), Jayden, Brittnee (David), and Erica (Alex); 10 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Allan (Barb).

Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; parents, Merle and Martha; sister, Jo Ann; and his infant sister, Patricia Ann.