Forest Smith Obituary

Forest "Frosty" Dean Smith, a man known for his big heart, outgoing personality, his love for his family, and deep love for the land, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, in Alamosa, Colorado while surrounded by his loved ones while in the same town where his life began 81 years earlier on August 8, 1943. He was born to Walter B. and Novey R. Smith, and grew up on the family farm where he developed a lifelong passion for agriculture and the outdoors.
Frosty spent most of his life farming and ranching in the San Luis Valley, where he raised cattle, worked the land, and shared laughs and stories with everyone who came through. Whether he was on horseback or behind the wheel of a tractor, he carried with him a large personality, a quick wit, and a deep respect for the land.
In addition to working the land, Frosty co-owned Ute Creek RV Park and spent many years as a trusted guide and outfitter. He was always ready with a good hunting story, and he had a knack for making people laugh and enjoy the experience -whether around a campfire, at the dinner table or swapping tales on the ranch. His love for ranching, hunting, and boating was matched only by the joy he found spending that time with his wife, kids, and grandkids.
Frosty is survived by his wife and companion of 41 years, Karen Smith, of Fort Garland, CO, and by his children:
• Rodney (Denise) Smith of Mosca, CO
• Kim (Brett) Canty of Sanford, CO
• T.J. (Victoria) Smith of Palisade, CO
• Brenda Pace (and Joey) of Pueblo, CO
• Kim (Teddy) Archuleta of Alamosa, CO
He is also survived by his siblings:
• Myrrl (Kathi) Smith of Blanca, CO
• Jerry (Barbara) Smith of Blanca, CO
• Karen Rhoads of Alamosa, CO
Frosty leaves behind a large and loving family, including numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will always remember his contagious smile, sense of humor, and "frostyizms" for the rest of their lives.
His motorhome was often his second home, and he loved traveling with Karen to Arizona, Mexico, and anywhere the road would take them-collecting stories and making long memories.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, John Rhoads.
A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, at Calvary Blanca Church, 607 Broadway Avenue, Blanca, CO 81123. Interment will follow at the Blanca Cemetery.
In honor of Frosty's life, contributions may be made to the Foundation to Advance Vascular Cures at http://www.vascularcures.org.
Arrangements are in the care of Rogers Family Mortuary. To leave a message of comfort, share memories, or post a tribute, please visit http://www.RogersFunerals.com.