Miriam Smith

MIRIAM GAYLE (ARMSTRONG) SMITH

Cedar Rapids

Miriam Gayle (Armstrong) Smith died Monday, Aug. 2, 2021, in her hometown of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was lovingly cared for by family members and special caregivers during her last years as a resident of Cottage Grove Place.

Surviving are her children, Sharon (Bob) Konchar, John (Dyan) Smith, Susan (Jay) Johnson and Jim (Lisa) Smith; along with 13 grandchildren, Jon (Sharon) Konchar, Lisa Konchar, Michael (Janice) Konchar, Ian Smith, Cortney (Jonathan) Howgate, Christine Smith, Ben (Mackenzie) Johnson, Erin Johnson, Tad Johnson, Brittney (Ivan Bridenhaggen) Smith, Matthew Smith, Summer (Jordan) Fischer and Stuart (Katie) Smith. She had 17 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

Miriam was born Nov. 8, 1923, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Myrtle and Charles Armstrong and grew up in Farley, Iowa. She was married to Herald Smith Jr., until his death in 2015. They met in elementary school and were married 69 years. Together, they started Cedar Rapids Steel Transport (CRST) out of a chicken coop they bought for $125 in 1955. Today, CRST is one of the nation's largest privately held transportation companies and is still in the family. In a period when working women were not the norm, Miriam worked alongside Herald and substantially contributed to its success.

In 1972, the Smiths purchased the beginnings of what would become Bayview Resort in Ellison Bay, Wis. The resort continues to hold a special place in the hearts of all generations of the Smith family.

A private family ceremony will take place in Ellison Bay, Wis. Donations may be sent to Hospice of Mercy or Four Oaks.