Keith Roger Smit, 79, of Sturgis, passed away on March 12, 2021, in Arizona due to complications from a fall playing pickleball. He had been suffering from Parkinson's but his stubbornness kept him from being a bystander. He was born on June 3, 1941, in Alta, IA, to Alvin and Wilma Smit. He met Ruth Lietz in kindergarten and pursued her until she finally said yes. They married in 1962 and were soon blessed with 3 children.
Keith enlisted in the National Guard after high school and earned his rifle Sharpshooter Badge. He then enrolled and played football for Buena Vista College in Storm Lake, IA. After being plagued with injuries (and some crazy stories), he retired from football and focused on graduating with his law degree from University of SD in Vermillion.
He and Ruth settled in Sturgis, SD, where he practiced law for 50 years, during which time he served as City Attorney and States Attorney. He was passionate about donating his time and serving his community. He demonstrated this by organizing and running the Jeff Smit Track Meet for 25 years, as well as serving on the Sturgis City Park Board, the Sturgis Economic Development Board, and many other organizations in the community. He was presented with the Key City award by the Chamber of Commerce and was also active in Grace Lutheran Church, serving on the council at one time.
Keith had a devotion for the outdoors and especially the Black Hills. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and even summited the Grand Teton at age 60. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and always looked forward to morning coffee at the Vets Club.
He was a pillar in our family and a friend and mentor to so many around him. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; his children, Craig Smit of Big Sky, MT, and Renae (Steve) Schumacher of Big Sky, MT; his grandchildren, Griffin, Ethan, and Nolan Schumacher, and Kyan and Colter Smit; his brother, Duane (Marietta) Smit of Windsor, CO; many nieces and nephews; and last, but not least, his beloved and faithful guardian, Rascal.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeff; and brother, Howard.
Public visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, March 19,2021, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis. The family ask that you please wear a mask.
A family Celebration of Life will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Grace Lutheran Church with a private family burial to follow. The services will be livestreamed on the Kinkade Funeral Chapel website.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Black Hills Trails.

Click on link to view folder