Neil Fraser Smith

Neil Fraser Smith, 78, Grand Forks died Thursday, April 19, 2012 unexpectedly at Altru Hospital. Neil Was born in Grafton, ND on January 22, 1934, the son of Gordon and Dorothy (Fraser) Smith. He grew up on a farm near St. Thomas, ND and graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1952. Neil served in the U.S. Army for two years. He later attended UND where he earned degrees in Political Science and Accounting. Neil was intelligent and passed the C.P.A. exam in one sitting. Neil worked at various agriculture jobs in the St. Thomas area before moving to Grand Forks. He worked for Dietrich Bus Service where he drove bus for many years. Neil loved playing Trivia Pursuit and singing Karaoke. He had a great memory and was relied on by family and friends to supply dates and other details relating to significant events. Not only was Neil a wealth of knowledge, he was blessed with a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh. Neil had a special bond with all his nieces and nephews, attending every graduation and wedding he possibly could. He was a kind and gentle man who made friends where ever he went. He touched a lot of lives always in a positive way and he will be missed. Neil is survived by his brothers; Ralph (Linda) Smith, St. Thomas, Harvey (Margaret) Smith, Cavalier, Bruce (Linda) North Mankato, MN Murray (Donna) Smith, Grand Forks, sisters; Ann BayLess, Auburn, WA, Beverly (Richard) Werner Buena Vista, CO. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters; Doris O'Connor, Jean Siewert, brother; Stuart, brother-in-laws; Stan O'Connor, Mac BayLess, Kenneth Siewert, and nephews Curtis Siewert, and Brian Larson. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 11:00 AM in Amundson Funeral Home, 2975 South 42nd St., Grand Forks. Visitation will be for one hour before the service in the funeral home.