MENDOTA – Rolin E. Smith, 74, of Mendota, passed away on April 24, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 28, 2024, from 1-4 p.m. with Bill Dunfrund leading a 4 p.m. service, all at Wasmer Funeral Home, Mendota. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at the Mendota Elks Lodge at 707 Indiana Ave. Cremation rites will be accorded and burial private. Wasmer Funeral Home is privileged to assist the family.

Rolly was born May 2, 1949, in Mendota, to Ivan and Eleanor (Cummings) Smith. He graduated Mendota High School in 1967. He met the love of his life, Pat Dean, on Oct. 8, 1969, and from then on, his world would never be the same. They had a love like no other and were inseparable until the day he died. They married May 29, 1971, at Holy Cross Catholic Church. During an over 40-year career he advanced from driver to regional manager with Ferrellgas, retiring in 2007.

He will be forever missed by his wife, Pat of Mendota; son, Jeff of Shorewood; daughters, Jenny (David) Boelk of Mendota and Julie Smith of Mendota; grandchildren, Maddie, Macey, Myah and Marlie Boelk, Isabelle, Isaac, and Isaiah Smith, Dawson and Maddux McPheeters; brother, Gary Smith of Fremont, Calif.; sister, Gayelle (David) Angelotti of St. Petersburg, Fla.; several nieces and nephews; and loving partner to Jeff, Paula Kennedy and her children Kian, Colin and Kayleigh Kennedy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Christie Hansen, and stepdad Donald Siedenburg.

Rolly lived a life marked by vibrant adventure and profound love. In his youth, he embraced the thrill of the open road, journeying to countless destinations with his closest buddies. His love of music took him to many concerts and festivals where he was free to express his wild and crazy side.

Rolly was an avid enthusiast of cars and motorcycles. He relished working on the pit crew for John Hansen and watching NASCAR. Locally, Rolly was a member of Mendota Elks Lodge #1212 and was involved with the Mendota Optimist Club.

Rolly’s leisure time was filled with joy and camaraderie. He and Pat were often found at wineries or festive wine parties, surrounded by friends. His hobbies included collecting baseball cards and exploring card shows, always eager for the next great find. Travel was another joy, and together with a cherished group of friends, Rolly and Pat embarked on numerous cruises, basking in tropical climates. Eventually, they decided to spend their winters in Florida along with friends old and new.

Summers at home were a time for gardening, following his beloved Chicago Bears and White Sox, and cherishing moments with his grandchildren, whom he supported enthusiastically at games and school events.

Rolly‘s life was a testament to the beauty of full-hearted living and the power of enduring love. We are immensely fortunate to have been a part of his extraordinary journey. His memory will forever be a guiding light in our lives, deeply cherished and profoundly missed. We have been so blessed to call him ours.

Memorials may be directed to Mendota Area Senior Services, OSF Hospice, or First United Methodist Church. Condolences may be left at wasmerfuneralhome.com.