Alta R. Smith

Alta R. Smith, 79, died Sunday, December 15, 2019 in Halstad Living Center, Halstad, Minnesota.

Alta Rae Smith was born to Henry and Dorothy (Grythe) Anderson on September 12, 1940 at  Grafton, North Dakota.  Alta attended school at Hoople, North Dakota and graduated  in 1958.  Alta attended one year of college at Mayville State Teachers College, and graduated  with a one year secretarial degree.  She worked for a radio station in Grafton, North Dakota and at the bank in Hoople, North Dakota before moving to Germany with her husband Boyd Bessire.   Alta married Tom Smith on November 23, 1973 in Rapid City, SD.  Tom and Alta moved to Thompson, ND in 1974. 

Alta worked at Grand Forks-Traill Water for many years and for several other businesses in  the area.  Alta was a part-time volunteer at the Salvation Army.   Alta attended Walle Lutheran Church and was an active member and played in the bell choir.  Alta loved dogs and owned one over a few years. 

Alta  is survived by her husband Tom of 43 years;  children, Mike (Nancy) Bessire, Mark (Christine) Bessire, Chris (Cassie) Smith;  four grandchildren, Luke,  Rachel, Mayson, Hydee; step son, Curt (Tracey) Smith; Step daughter, Kimberly Zamora;  five step-grandchildren, Triston, Talia, Sara, Weston, Dru.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Merle Waltman.