Brian Smith

Brian Land Smith passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, December 22, 2024.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, Dec. 28, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 106 Osage Ave, Bismarck. To view the service livestream, click this link Good Shepherd Lutheran Church - YouTube

Burial will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, Dec. 30, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. 

Brian was born in Buffalo, NY, in 1942 to Noland and Claire Smith, Brian’s early years were marked by a mischievous spirit and a knack for finding adventure in Western New York. Born while his father was deployed in World War II, Brian was “severely adored” by his mom, grandma, and aunts who raised him in his early years.

After graduating from college, Brian served in the United States Air Force, requesting a coastal assignment but instead finding himself in Minot, North Dakota. It was there that he met the love of his life, Yvonne Nestegard. Over their remarkable 55-year marriage, Brian and Yvonne shared a passion for travel, good food, and lifelong friendships. Their adventures spanned the globe, from the Middle East during Brian’s Air Force tenure to many cherished trips to Europe.

Brian had a love of engines and motorsports. Whether tooling around on his motorcycle or identifying cars by their sound alone, he found joy in anything with wheels. One of his favorite pastimes was watching the Indianapolis 500, a tradition he held close to his heart.

A natural listener with a calm presence, he dedicated his professional life to helping others as a psychotherapist, a career that reflected his deep empathy and commitment to supporting people in their journeys. When not at work, Brian adored ice cream and could often be found immersed in a massive book. 

Above all, Brian cherished his role as "Papa" to his two granddaughters, Lydia and Sophia. Whether exploring on adventures, going on family trips, cheering them on at all their activities, or driving the “Subaru Uberu” for after-school pick-ups, Brian’s love for his family was boundless.

Brian is survived by his devoted wife, Yvonne; his daughters, Andrea Smith (and her wife, Rebecca Johnson) of Seattle, WA, and Erin Jacobson (and her husband, Michael Jacobson) of Bismarck, ND; his beloved granddaughters, Lydia and Sophia Jacobson; his brother, Craig Smith (and his wife, Barb Smith) of North Tonawanda, NY; many nieces and nephews; and his faithful cat, Toby.

Brian's kindness, curiosity, and deep love for his family will be remembered by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the memories of those he touched throughout his remarkable life. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Abused Adult Resource Center, Great Plains Food Bank, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, or the charity of your choice.