James W. "Smitty" Smith, 79, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away, Saturday afternoon, May 26, 2018, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, in Dubuque.

According to Jim's wishes, there will be no public visitation.  Private family services will be Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at the Miller Funeral Home, in East Dubuque.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, in Dubuque, IA.

Jim was born on December 29, 1938, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Leonard and Frances (Hartmann) Smith.  He was united in marriage to Joan Gansen, in May of 1960, she preceded him in death.

Jim retired from the John Deere Dubuque Works after thirty (30) years of service.  He was a former member of U.A.W Local #94.

He loved his family and lived life to the fullest.

Surviving are his children, Julie (Jake) Belken, Jean (Craig) Jackson, and Jim (Lisa) Smith; grandchildren, Jacob (Kim) Belken, Joey (Bridget) Belken, Alan and Matthew Jackson, Keith Smith and Kim (Brandon) Maro; great-grandchildren; his siblings, Joan (Dick) Czipar, Jean Reynolds, Bob (Judy) Smith, Pat and Tom Smith; step-children, Lynne, Connie and Steve.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joan; brother, Mike; and his ex-wife, Judie Smith.

Jim's family would like to "thank" the Menominee-Dunleith first responders, the East Dubuque Ambulance and the Emergency Room personnel at Finley for their efforts and support, in our time of need!

Online condolences may be left at www.millerfhed.com