Timothy Rea Smith, 67, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 4, 2025, following a long battle with health issues. Born December 6, 1957, in Independence, Kansas to Thomas Everett Smith, Jr and Patricia Ann McKown Smith of Independence, Tim lived a life marked by dedication to education, career success, and deep love for his family.
A 1976 graduate of Field Kindley High School, Tim pursued higher education with characteristic determination. He began his studies at Pittsburg State University, later transferred to Coffeyville Community College, and ultimately completed his B.S. in Geophysics from Kansas State University in 1984. Throughout his academic journey, he maintained excellent grades while balancing his studies with an active social life. He built a successful career as a Senior Project Engineer in hazardous waste remediation. His love for K-State continued long after graduation - he was an ardent Wildcat football fan and rarely missed a home game during the years his daughter Andi attended the university.
On October 19, 1996, Tim married Tina Vanek in Wilson, Kansas, beginning a partnership filled with adventure and travel. He proposed in Grand Cayman and they honeymooned in Barbados, setting the stage for many cherished family trips, including recent journeys to Turks and Caicos and Grand Cayman with his beloved family. Tim was an avid scuba diver who found joy in ocean exploration and beachside sunsets.
Tim's greatest pride was his daughter, Andrea Ollila of Madison, Wisconsin. He treasured every moment with Andi, his son-in-law Matt, and his cherished grandsons Wes and Oli. Known for his infectious smile and genuine ability to connect with others, Tim maintained lifelong friendships and was a beloved mentor to his nephews. His faithful companion, Sunnie the family dog, stayed by his side until the end.
Music was a cornerstone of Tim's life. He was a dedicated listener of the Acoustic Storm radio program on Sunday afternoons and a regular attendee of the Winfield Music Festival. His love for music, combined with his enjoyment of bonfires and sunsets, created the perfect backdrop for countless gatherings with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife Tina; daughter Andrea (Matthew) Ollila; grandsons Weston and Oliver; brothers Tony (Deana), Terry, and Tad Smith; nephews Tyler (Jenna) Smith and their children Madison and Hunter; and Matthew (Haley) Smith and their children Benjamin and Sophia; and Brayden and Ty Pfeffer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Patricia Smith.
A celebration of Tim's life will be held in the coming months, with details to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center (Employee Benevolence Fund or Building Our Future fund) or Holy Name Catholic Church; contributions may be left with or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.
To leave a message for the family please visit www.dwbfh.com
