William "Bill" Smith

William Robert “Bill” Smith, 80, of rural Postville passed peacefully in his home Monday, February 17, 2025. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Bill was born July 13, 1944 in Waukon, the son of Ivan C. and Esther (May) Smith. He grew up in the Forest Mills area and attended both the Forest Mills and Red School. April 18, 1975 Bill married his forever love, Marlene Parker, and instantly became a father of four children.

Bill’s working years took him to a saw mill in Oregon, working for farmers and doing custom work in Iowa, and building condos in Virginia. He was always employed, and in his last days stated, “I love working!”

His favorite topic of conversation was who bought, sold or traded cars, tractors and guns. After retiring, he enjoyed scrapping metal, knapping arrowheads, porch sitting, cars, puzzles, and following “Gold Rush” Friday evenings.

Bill is survived by his stepchildren, Bernita Kessel, JoAnn Waterworth, William (De Lisa) Waterworth, and Roy (Sally) Waterworth, all of Waukon; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Sylvia Roffman of Waukon and Lorraine Gallagher of Postville; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Marlene; his parents, Ivan and Esther Smith; his sisters, Gloria Kervin and Donna Franklin; and a brother, Stephen Smith.