Obituary for Russell J. Smith, Jr.

Russell Smith was a gentle giant with a quick, quiet smile. A native Minnesotan raised in Fridley with boyhood summers spent at the Tschida grandparent’s farm in Holdingford, MN.

He had an undeniably strong constitution, meeting the ying to his yang, Mary Pat Andersen in 1979. They said I do in 1983 and six years later their love brought Rachael into the world. Russell was a devoted husband, father and son to the three most important women in his life – Mar, Rachael and Rita. In addition to his family, his commitment ran deep to his job, colleagues, and especially to the patients he served for nearly forty years as a psychiatric associate at Fairview Riverside. In Remington Steele style donning his signature sport coat and jeans, he lent a kind and listening ear to those struggling with mental illness.

His alter ego was all about “casual comfort” wearing Rustler denim, flannel shirts and a jean jacket, not to mention his colorful collection of hats. He loved mowing his lawn, playing his keyboard, listening to instrumental music, Frank Sinatra and the Moody Blues. Russell carried his favorite dark chocolates in his sport coat pocket, and he was always willing to share!

Being a team player, Russell was always posing the question “What’s the best way Mar ?” He was often quoted regarding life saying “I just take it one day at a time.” The song Day By Day from Godspell captures our prayer for Russell now in his heavenly home.

Day by day

Oh, Dear Lord three things I pray

To see thee more clearly

Love thee more dearly

Follow thee more nearly

Day by day



Preceded in death by his father, Russell J. Sr. Survived by wife, Mary Pat; daughter, Rachael; mother, Rita Smith; siblings, Randy (Debbie) Smith, Ron (Kathy) Smith, Rick (Chris) Smith; Renee (Dennis) Reinhart; also survived by all the Andersens as well as nieces, nephews, and many friends. Mass of Christian Burial 11AM Wednesday, August 17, 2016, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 9100 93rd Ave. N., Brooklyn Park, with visitation after 9:30 AM at church. Inurnment St. Vincent's Cemetery. In honor of Russell, jean jackets or flannel shirts are encouraged. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family.