SMITH, FRANK EDWARD "STEVE" , passed away on October 4, 2024 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and ingenuity. Born on August 26, 1942, in the small town of Protection, Kansas, Steve's life was deeply rooted in hard work, loyalty, and community values. The son of Freeman Bentley Smith and Edyth Ellen Beatty Smith, Steve spent his childhood attending Protection Grade School and later South Central High School in Coldwater, where he developed lifelong friendships and a love for learning.

After high school, Steve answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Army and later joining the National Guard. His service included tours in Vietnam, where he displayed courage and resilience, qualities that would define him throughout his life. Upon returning from Vietnam, Steve lived in various Kansas towns, including Clay Center and Emporia, before settling in Cheyenne. It was there that he turned his natural curiosity and mechanical talent into a thriving business, starting a CB/radio repair shop that evolved into the successful Triple T Specialty Co. His love for fixing things was not just a job but a passion that kept him continually engaged with the latest technology.

In the summer of 1964, Steve married Gena, and together they welcomed two sons, Richard and Russel, into their lives. Though their marriage ended in 1979, they shared the joy of raising their children. On July 3, 1980, Steve found love again with Victoria, with whom he shared many beautiful years until her passing. Steve and Victoria relocated to Coldwater around 2000, where they enjoyed the peace of small-town life and the pleasures of nature. Steve was a man who delighted in simple joys: feeding the birds, hunting deer and antelope, and spending time outdoors. He had an affinity for eagles and often marveled at their majesty, perhaps finding in them a reflection of his own quiet strength.

Despite his sometimes stern demeanor and formal "old school" manners, Steve had a heart full of generosity and kindness. Always the first to offer help, he was known for his deep respect for others, addressing people by name and title—"sir" and "ma'am"—with a handshake that left an impression. His sense of humor lightened many moments, and those who knew him best saw past his tough exterior to the man who was always there for family and friends, ready to lend a hand or share a laugh.

Steve was a lifelong learner, always eager to keep up with emerging technologies. His curious mind led him to become a Microsoft Beta Tester and an active participant in various IT forums, where he shared his knowledge and love for innovation. It was this combination of old-world values and modern fascination that made Steve a truly unique individual. His work ethic extended to his hobbies, as he was always tinkering with something or engaged in a project that kept his hands and mind busy.

Steve's love for sports was evident every Sunday, when he could be found cheering for his beloved Kansas City Chiefs. His loyalty extended even to the Denver Broncos, a tribute to the love he shared with Vickie, who was a fan of the team. He found great joy in watching the games, often surrounded by family, and his passion for football was a thread that connected him to those he loved.

Steve's legacy is carried on by his two sons, Richard Steven Smith and Russel Shon Smith, and a daughter from Vietnam, whose presence enriched his life in ways words cannot express. He was a proud grandfather to Rick Allen, Ryan Lee, Crystal Ann, Steven Edward, Lisa Marie, Joshua Rick, Amanda Nichole, Ashley Marie, Zachary John, and Elizabeth Ellen, and a beloved great-grandfather to Delilah Belle, Evee Virginia Sue, Jhamir, Lyric Edward Allen, Kimberly Rose Ann, Christopher Gary, Kaladin Edward, Andre Alvin and Athena Rose. His family was his pride and joy, and he cherished each moment spent with them, sharing in their successes and supporting them through challenges.

Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Vickie, his parents Freeman and Edith, stepfather John Black, great-grandson Alexander Vladimir Holecek, ex-wife Gina Catherine, brother John Leslie "JL," and sister Carolyn. Though they are no longer with us, their memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved Steve.

As we say goodbye to a man whose life was filled with love, service, and a tireless curiosity for the world around him, we remember Steve not only for what he accomplished but for who he was—a generous, humorous, and loyal soul who made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements for Frank Edward "Steve" Smith's memorial are currently pending. In the meantime, we honor the life of a man who gave so much to his family, his community, and his country, and whose spirit will live on in the lives he touched.