CONFIMRED: Wade Smith, US Army, Veteran, Kuwait (238-25) 18 Dec 25
6321 Bandera Rd
San Antonio, TX 78238
USA
US ARMY WADE SMITH VETERAN – KUWAIT
The family of Mr. Wade Smith, a US Army Veteran, requests the presence and participation of the San Antonio Patriot Guard at the services, and the LEO supported procession, and graveside rendering of military honors of their loved one. We are honored to accept this invitation.
Wade Adam Smith, 56, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on November 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Wade was born in York, Pennsylvania, on June 15, 1969, to Jess and Sarah Smith. His mother, Sarah, passed away on November 7, 2014. He grew up in Felton and graduated from Red Lion High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and created stories that his friends and family will carry forward with laughter and love.
Driven by a desire to see more of the world and follow in his father’s footsteps, Wade enlisted in the United States Army on July 1, 1987. During his years of service, he demonstrated unwavering dedication, honor, and resilience. He earned numerous awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Sharpshooter Badge (Rifle), Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. Wade’s service reflected both bravery and deep commitment to his country. Sadly, his time serving in Kuwait directly contributed to the illness that ultimately took his life.
Although Wade often carried a tough outward demeanor, those who truly knew him understood the kindness and gentleness at his core. Soft-spoken by nature, he had an uncanny ability to say exactly what was needed to bring comfort, clarity, or even laughter to any situation.
A devoted and passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Wade never missed a game. He celebrated every win with excitement, and during the losses, he offered some very colorful commentary—always with humor and an unshakable loyalty to his team.
Wade absolutely loved Christmas and cherished his Christmas village, a collection he took great pride in. One of his most treasured traditions was setting it up each year with Brayden—a special ritual filled with laughter, stories, and joy. It is a tradition we have vowed to continue in the years to come, honoring his spirit and keeping his love for Christmas alive.
Wade is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sarah Smith (2014), and his brother, Denny Smith (2024). He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherrie Smith (Budzowski), and their son, Brayden, age 13. Wade is also survived by his sons Jesse Smith of Colorado; Thomas Smith and his wife, Emaleigh; and Adam Smith. He is further survived by his six grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.
In addition, he is survived by his father, Jess Smith, and stepmother, Gwen Smith, of Pennsylvania; his stepfather, George Diehl; his sister, Christie Colon, and brother-in-law, Ben Colon; and their daughters, his cherished nieces, Alexis and Alyssa, also of Pennsylvania.
Wade never thought in terms of “in-laws”—to him, we were all simply family. It is only fitting to honor those who were so very close to him: Tim Drayton; Juanita Budzowski of Texas; Larry and Fran Budzowski of Texas; Mike and Cathy Budzowski of South Carolina, and his nephews Robert (wife, Lynsey), Tyler (wife, Samantha), Eric, and nieces Katie (husband, Danny Brown), and Ashlyn. Their love, support, and presence in his life meant more than words can express.
We are also deeply grateful for the many friends who are family to us, and whose support has meant so much during this time—Mike Taylor and Albert Kucher, Barbara and Curt Krueger, and Samantha Duran.
A special thanks to Team 561 at Vitas Hospice Care; Kelly, you were amazing, and I truly appreciated you and everything you did for us.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”
WEATHER: Hi 80 / Lo 51, 0 % Chance of Rain, 94 % Humidity, Wind: 5 mph SSW
REQUESTOR: Larry Budzowski, Father-in-law
STAGING: 12:00 pm, Thursday, December 18, 2025
Sunset Northwest Funeral Home
6321 Bandera Road
San Antonio, Texas 78238
https://goo.gl/maps/2vwdRFYxBjD2
BRIEFING: 12:15 pm
SERVICE: 1:00 pm
Sunset Northwest Funeral Home
6321 Bandera Road
San Antonio, Texas 78238
https://goo.gl/maps/2vwdRFYxBjD2
KSU: 2:00 pm (Semper Gumby)
INTERMENT: 2:45 pm – Shelter #5 (Call to Verify)
Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery
1520 Harry Wurzbach Road
San Antonio, Texas 78209
https://goo.gl/maps/kQ68VALuUAptXpgS9
RC: Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
bobtxpgr@gmail.com
FC: Rich “Richie Rich” Pachecano
rich@pachecano.net
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Iron horses if you can, cages are always welcome and appreciated and unless under special circumstances not allowed in processions. You do not have to have a motorcycle to participate in honoring our veterans.
2. Safety First: Please remember to properly hydrate (including the night before) before any outdoor activity and to dress appropriately. Do not hesitate to take a break at any time if you feel you need to get in the shade or get indoors and always ask for help at any time. Also please do not forget your sun screen.
3. Please remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent, and with honor and. NO TALKING, SMOKING, CHEWING OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, OR CELL PHONE USE IN THE FLAG LINE!
***Safety Notice***
Before volunteering and/or attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders missions we encourage you to review all safety information below. Included are some potential safety concerns to be aware of, however this does not include the full scope of all potential hazards. Anyone attending any San Antonio Patriot Guard Riders mission understands that they do so at their own risk. Neither the Patriot Guard Riders Organization nor its representatives are liable for any damages incurred on any PGR mission or event.
Funeral Processions/Escorts
EVERY RIDER IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for their own safety at all times while riding in a funeral procession.
At NO TIME are any riders authorized to block any intersection or otherwise block or impede traffic laws in any way. Only Law Enforcement officials are authorized to block and/or impeded the lawful flow of traffic.
If you choose to fly a Flag on your bike you are SOLELY RESPONSIBLE for ensuring it is secured and not a danger to any other rider or traffic.
Warm Regards,
Bob “Pizza Man” Johnson
Asst. State Captain
Deputy State Captain
San Antonio Patriot Guard
Dignity, Honor, Respect
Cell: 562-413-2223
“We can’t all be heroes. Some of us get to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”
Will Rogers