Joseph Kropf Smout, 85, passed away on August 23, 2024, in Ogden, Utah after a difficult battle with a rare form of Ecoli. Joseph was born on July 19, 1939, in Preston, Idaho, he was a dedicated servant of his Savior Jesus Christ and enjoyed serving in his faith, serving his family and community, embodying the principles of love, service, and family throughout his life.

Joe graduated from Granite High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Criminology from the University of Utah. He was a standout athlete, participating in wrestling, baseball, and basketball during his youth and was part of the University of Utah’s wrestling team during early college years. When he turned 19 years old Joseph served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Eastern States and Eastern Atlantic States.

Joseph married his sweetheart, Patsy Stevens, in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1st, 1962. Joe loved his wife and enjoyed having her involved in all of his activities. Joe and Pat had 6 children, which included a set of twins. They raised their children in Richfield and later moved to West Valley City. Joe loved the Boy Scouts of America and was honored with the Silver Beaver award for his dedication to the scouting program.

Professionally, Joe dedicated many years to the State of Utah’s Department of Corrections, where his contributions included authoring the gun safety manual. After retiring, Joe and his wife, Pat, served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Papua New Guinea, focusing on church education and activities. They later resided in Pingree and Malad, Idaho.

Joe’s life was marked by his deep love for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and camping. He was also known for his culinary skills with a Dutch oven, solar cooking and enjoyed reciting poetry and historical texts. Joe enjoyed playing the piano, guitar and painting and singing.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patsy Laraine Smout; children, Laraine Mayhew (Gary), Carolyn Wells (Daniel), David Joseph Smout (Darlene), Diane Blair (Russell), Richard Earl Smout (Robyn), and Brenda Smout Horrocks (Bradley); 19 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Earl and Doris LaVern Smout, his brother Doran Earl Smout, his daughter-in-law Robyn Smout and granddaughter Jessica Blair.

Joseph Kropf Smout will be remembered as a joyful, energetic man who lived each day as a gift and an adventure, always striving to make a positive impact on those around him. He has touched many hearts and blessed many lives.

Funeral services will be held on September 21st at 10:00 at their ward house, 20 S.100 W. Malad, ID 83252.

Interment to follow at Samaria Cemetery, 4665 S. 4600 W., Malad, ID 83252