Allen Lee Smith, 74, passed away April 19, 2023, at Medicalodges of Great Bend. He was born Jan. 7, 1949, in Lyons, Kan., the son of Simon and Inez Smith. Allen attended Lyons High School and later went to work in the oilfield, built bridges, and worked road construction. He was an avid outdoorsman, loved cookouts, and get togethers. He had a big personality and was proud of his Chippewa Indian Heritage. He had a story for every occasion whether it was a tall tale or based on facts. He made friends everywhere he was and knew no strangers. 

On June 13, 1970, Allen married Margaret Sanders. They met while cruising with friends when a race was initiated Margaret in a Falcon and Allen in a Camero. After Allen’s loss it was love at first sight. Allen and Margaret had three children, Lisa Smith Woods, Allen W. Smith, Eric O. Smith. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret in 2003 and his daughter, Lisa in 2014. Allen is survived by his two sons, Allen Smith and wife Joyce of Scott City, Kan. and Eric Smith and wife Kristi of Great Bend, Kan.; sister, Nadine Hudson of Mesquite, Texas; grandchildren, Zachary and Mary Gustus of Overland Park, Kan., Allison Smith and Tanner Schultz of Buhler, Kan., Brooklyn Smith of Scott City, Kan., U.S. Army SPC Harley Ringo of Katterbach, Germany, Haleigh, Brady, Braleigh Ringo and Tray Smith all of Great Bend, Kan., Kurty Woods, Arizona and Johnna Woods of Great Bend, Kan., Nevada, Aaron and Tiffany Woods all of Lacrosse, Kan.; and nine great-grandkids. 

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with Pastor Mike Ringo officiaiting. Cremains to be interred at a later date by family on the Indian Reservation of his heritage. The family suggest memorials be given to Birzer Funeral Home to help offset funeral expenses. 

Funeral arrangements provided by

Birzer Buneral Home

214 W. Ave. South

Lyons, KS.  67554

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 22, 2023