Dr. Russell (Rusty/Russ) James Smith D.V.M., age 56 of Glasgow, Montana passed away on September 29th, 2015 in Salt Lake City of heart complications. Rusty was born in Columbus, Montana on December 22, 1958. He was the only child to Margot (Mundell) Smith and Clarence James Smith.
He attended school in Red Lodge, Montana until 4th grade. His family then moved to Casper, Wyoming where he graduated from Natrona County High School in 1977. He then attended Casper College for two years and completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wyoming finishing with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1981. He continued on with his education to earn his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University in 1985.
Rusty met Kathleen Ann Farmer in March of 1978, and their 33-year marriage began on June 5, 1982. They were blessed with two sons, Brady James Smith of Salt Lake City and Corey Allen Smith of Bozeman.
Rusty and Kathy moved to Glasgow in June of 1985 to begin their careers, as Rusty’s desire was to work a mixed animal practice in a rural setting. By 1991 he became a partner, later purchasing the Glasgow Veterinary Clinic in 1993. He was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, served on the Montana Veterinary State Board, and the Wells Fargo Board.
He was very active in the community. He coached his sons in football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. He was a supporter of numerous organizations including the Scottie Booster Club, 4-H, Focus on the Family, Montana Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Fort Peck Summer Theatre.
Rusty had a variety of interests including boating, kayaking, hunting, skiing, whitewater rafting, and fishing. He enjoyed traveling with family and friends, dabbling in the stock market, and was a diehard Broncos fan.
He was a loving husband and father. Rusty will be remembered for his kind, caring, and gentle nature. He is preceded in death by his father and grandparents.
Rusty is survived by his mother, Margot Smith of Casper, Wyoming; wife, Kathy Smith of Glasgow, Montana; and sons, Brady Smith of Salt Lake City, Utah and Corey Smith of Bozeman, Montana.
Visitation will take place Friday, October 2nd beginning at 1:00 PM. Family will receive from 4:00 PM till 6:00 PM, with a sharing taking place beginning at 6:00 PM at the Bell Mortuary. Services will be Saturday, October 3rd, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the St. Raphael’s Parish in Glasgow, Montana. Burial will take place at Highland Cemetery.
Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at bellmortuarymontana.com.