DODGE CITY – Chad Smith, 66, died Friday, September 25, 2026, at his home in Dodge City, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born December 10, 1959, in Dodge City, the son of Wade Brown and Wilma Mae (Denton) Smith. He was a lifetime Dodge City resident and Master Brick Mason. He owned and operated C&C Construction for many years.

On February 25, 1978, he married Christine Gingerich in Dodge City.

He had a lifelong love for racing, whether he was maintaining the racetrack or simply enjoying the sport. One of his greatest joys was attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and cheering them on, as they were truly his pride and joy. He also enjoyed golfing, raccoon hunting, mowing, and watering his yard, and, of course, his late-night snacks. He loved animals and was always happy to spoil them with a snack or two. These simple pleasures, along with the time he spent surrounded by his family and animals, brought him happiness throughout his life.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Chris; three children, Jesse Smith and wife Rona, Casey Smith, and Trever Smith, all of Dodge City; 10 grandchildren, Sadie, Rase, Alea, Makenna, Cam, Trey, Maud, Layla, Trevin, Tresa, and 1 Great granddaughter Elayah, along with his beloved dog and faithful companion Lola. Three brothers, Tom Smith of Dodge City and Jim Smith of Vista, California, and his bonus brother Chuck Taylor of Dodge City; and one sister, Joyce Barnes of Leawood, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Alvin Denton, Ray Smith, and Vernon Smith; four sisters, Micky Denton, Joy “Boots” Hunter, Jackie McDowell, and Irma Cox, along with Irma’s two daughters; one grandson, Gaige; his brother-in-law, Mark Gingerich; and his father-in-law, Wayne Gingerich.

Memorial services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City, with Charles Taylor officiating. There will be no public viewing; cremation has taken place. Honorary bearers will be Jim Smith, Tom Smith, Johnny Ontiberos, Jason Cunningham, Tyler Pencis and Junior Calderon.

In Lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Western Kansas Motorsports Museum, Inc. in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.