Smaby, John W., Ph.D. Age 89 of St. Paul, passed away on Monday, November 8, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Elvira Smaby; sister, Barbara Smaby; and former wife and mother of his children, Marilyn B. Smaby. John was survived by his wife, Claudia Fercello; brother, Richard Smaby (Kay); sister, Rachel Reed; his four children, Jean Remus (Stuart), Mari Smaby-Stone (Jeffrey), Paul Smaby (Elizabeth), Karl Smaby (Deanna Hagen) as well as three stepchildren, Cindy Tranby (Jon), John Frey (Amanda), Jason Frey (Lisa) and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. John was a lifelong teacher and knowledge seeker. He taught at many institutions of higher education, and, at the end of his career, was responsible for the installation of Computer Information Systems on many campuses. John was a philosopher, voracious reader, jazz lover, artist (drawing and painting) and a digital photographer. He loved sweets, especially cookies and donuts, and was a loyal MN Vikings fan. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held during the summer of 2022. Memorials can be sent to Minnesota Public Radio 651 290-1212; 800 228-7123 or the Smaby Music Scholarship, Concordia College, Moorhead.

Published on November 16, 2021