Robert Dean Smith died on his 64th birthday with his wife, Janet, and numerous friends and family at his side after an ATV accident at Gooseberry near Salina in the Manti-La Sal National Forest. Always looking out for others before himself, his immediate concern was to make sure Janet was okay, despite his own severe injuries.
Born July 16, 1952 in Provo, Utah to Robert Laurence and Bonnie Rieske Smith, he was the oldest of five boys and grew up at the Smith family garage. He learned to fix anything that had a motor or wheels. His passion led to countless hours under the hood and behind the wheel of derby and racecars. Either he or his equipment could be counted on to go anywhere if someone he knew broke down. His skill with tools led to a career as a maintenance mechanic at Intermountain Power, from which he recently retired.
Dean valued his family above all else. He met Janet Johnson on a blind date; they were married February 2, 1974 and later sealed for time and all eternity in the Provo LDS Temple. He loved supporting his kids and grandkids in any activities they chose, regularly sacrificing his time and talents to make sure those he loved were taken care of. When he got excited, his booming voice could cut through the noise at any sporting event—everyone knew he was on your side.
Dean showed a genuine interest in those around him and his home is always open to friends and family. Janet and Dean’s legendary hospitality often makes it difficult for visitors to figure out how everyone present is connected.
He spent much of his life outdoors beginning with his childhood summers at Strawberry Reservoir. Before moving to Delta he served as a rescue diver for Utah County Search and Rescue and may know something about the Strawberry Reservoir monster that terrorized fishermen on opening day of fishing season. He could regularly be found riding and exploring with his wife and grandkids or the Fagarwee crew.
Dean is survived by his wife: Janet; children: Brandon (Cally) Smith, Dusty (Jenny) Smith and Kim (Kelly) Carter, all of Delta, Utah; grandchildren: Cole, Cade “B”, Addy, Jarrett, Kelci, Salem, Jerzie, Gabby, Kyan, and Roczen; mother: Bonnie Smith; and brothers: Dave, Jerry, Jim and Kelly.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 29, at 11:00 a.m., at the Gunnison Bend Ward LDS Chapel, 188 North Main St, Hinckley. Viewings will be held Thursday, 6-8 pm, at Nickle Mortuary, 190 S Center, Delta; and Friday, 9:00-10:40 am, prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Delta City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute towards funeral expenses and Janet’s growing medical bills. You can donate to the Janet J Smith fund at any Zions Bank branch or online at https://www.youcaring.com/janetdean-smith-605785