Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Nov. 5, 1953 - Jan. 30, 2025

CENTENNIAL, Colo. - Charles “Chip” Smith was born on Nov. 5, 1953 to Charles Max Smith and Beverly Arlene Smith in McCook, Neb. He passed away on Jan. 30, 2025 with friends and family by his side.

Chip lived life to the fullest and had many life chapters. He attended The University of Nebraska starting out playing football and then his focus changed to music and the arts. He would eventually earn a doctorate degree in music. He met his life partner Donna Harper during that time. He taught for many years at Hastings College and developed life long relationships with his students and fellow teachers.

After retirement from Hastings College the mountains called to him and he moved to Rollinsville, Colo. He worked for Timberline Fire and immersed himself in the community again building relationships with neighbors, artists in the community, and the fire workers.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father. Survivors include his wife Donna, his sister Cherril Serdy, brother-in-law Joe Dehner, sisterter-in-law Noel Julnes Dehner, Nephews Jesse Craig, Matt and Kevin Serdy, nieces Holly Julnes-Dehner and Sarah; and his good friends in the communities he has touched.

Memorials can be sent to an animal shelter of your choice.