Key Takeaways
- Hunter’s parents announced his passing, prompting an outpouring of tributes online.
- The SMSU community is profoundly grieving his loss.
- He was an MBA student, track star, and aspiring law student.
Hunter Smith, a dedicated student-athlete at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), passed away on November 4, 2024.
The heartbreaking news was shared by his father, Chris Smith, alongside his mother, Marla Smith, in a Facebook post.
Following the post, tributes poured in from friends, family, and community members who expressed their sorrow and shared memories of Hunter:
One commented:
We are so heartbroken… Hunter was such a bright light in this dark world. An extraordinary young man! Will be lifting you up in prayer. Sending all our love to you and your whole family. We are so deeply sorry, Chris.
Via Facebook
Another shared:
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you and your family. Hunter was such an amazing son, brother and young man with a beautiful, kind sole. Heaven just got one of the best. God bless you all.
Via Facebook
A third wrote:
Chris and family, I am so sorry to hear this. Hunter had grown into an amazing young man. Please reach out for anything you guys need. Lyle and I are here for you and Marla❤️
Via Facebook
While the cause of Hunter’s passing has not been shared publicly, the Smith family is currently in mourning as they navigate this difficult time.
Posted by Marla Smith on Sunday, July 26, 2020
The Southwest Minnesota State University community is also grieving the loss of Hunter, who was an influential presence on campus, especially within the track and field program.
Jen Flowers, SMSU Director of Athletics, said:
Our campus community is grieving the loss of a wonderful young man. Hunter was a tremendous leader on our campus, specifically within our track and field program. His impact was felt throughout campus because he was involved in so many different things. Our department was better with Hunter in it. On behalf of Mustang Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to Hunter’s family, loved ones, teammates, and friends. We will support each other through this difficult time and carry Hunter’s legacy with us.
Via Smsumustangs
In honor of Hunter, campus officials announced that FCA would hold a vigil on Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 8 p.m. in the PE Gym at SMSU. All are welcome to attend.
Hunter Smith: SMSU MBA Student and Track Star
Hunter Smith was an MBA student at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) from Plattsmouth, Nebraska. He was set to graduate this spring and aspired to attend law school in the fall.
As a senior at SMSU, Hunter was a standout member of the SMSU Men’s Track & Field team, where he competed in pole vault.
He earned several honors, including the CSC Academic All-District and Academic All-NSIC titles across multiple seasons, reflecting his dedication to balancing academics with athletics.
His achievements included placing seventh in the pole vault at the 2024 NSIC Indoor Championships with a vault of 4.47m and winning the pole vault at the DSU and Gustie Twilights during the outdoor season.
Hunter’s athletic journey began at Plattsmouth High School, where he was a two-time state qualifier and district champion and also competed in cross-country and wrestling.
Since November 2023, he has served as a Graduate Assistant in Student Center Operations at SMSU, where he managed student center staff, oversaw event setups, and coordinated with clients for campus events.
In addition to his academic and athletic commitments, Hunter has been a Motor Transport Operator with the Army National Guard in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, a role he has held since January 2022.
Previously, he interned remotely with the U.S. Forest Service (Sep 2023 – May 2024), conducted legal research on civil cases, and worked with SMSU’s Department of Public Safety (Nov 2021 – Sep 2022).
Hunter held a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science (2023) and was completing his MBA at SMSU.
His passing has left a deep void in the SMSU community and the lives of those who knew him, highlighting his profound impact as a student, athlete, and friend.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Born on July 15, 2002, Hunter Smith has three sisters, two of whom are named Sawyer and Harbor.
- Hunter worked as a part-time General Laborer at Dworak’s Home Remodeling from May 2020 to August 2021.
