Neal Dennis Smith, age 69, of North Hudson, passed away at his home on Thursday afternoon, June 2, 2011. He was born the son of Charles “Tami” and Bertha Smith on March 2, 1942 in River Falls, WI. Neal graduated from River Falls High School in 1960. In 1961, he served in the National Guards at the time of the Berlin Crisis in Washington State. On August 7, 1965 he was united in marriage to Rita Marie Sabol in Hudson. They were blessed with two lovely daughters, Tracy (Tim) Rieger and Kerry Smith, along with 2 grandsons, Charlie and Sam Rieger who were the love of his life.

In 1972, he became owner of His & Her Hair Fashion in Lakeland, MN until he sold the business in September of 2010 to start semi-retirement. Neal was an active member of the Lions Club in Lakeland, MN. He was the “world’s best barber”, along with his passion for golf, enjoying watching the Green Packers, working outside and most of all his grandsons. To all that knew Neal, he was a friend to everyone.

Neal will remain in the hearts of his wife of 45 years, Rita; children: Tracy (Tim) Rieger and Kerry Smith; 2 grandsons Charlie and Sam; sisters: Kay Chernesky and Gayle (Lynn) Hasledalen and brother, Jerry (Shirley) Smith, along with many extended family members and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles “Tami” and Bertha Smith.

A Celebration of Neal’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 8th at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St., Hudson. Visitation one hour prior to the service at church and on Tuesday, June 7th from 4:00 until 8:00 PM at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson, 715-386-3725. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.