Glen Wayne Smith

In Loving Memory of Glen Wayne Smith

Glen Wayne Smith passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after a brave battle with cancer. Born on October 14, 1948, in Prague, Oklahoma, to Glenn and Dorothy Smith, Glen grew up on the family farm with his sisters, Lynda and Karen. The Smith family farm, now in its 125th year, stands as a proud testament to their enduring legacy.

A Life Marked by Strength and Resilience

From his earliest years, Glen faced adversity with unwavering courage. At just 18 months old, he was diagnosed with polio in his leg, a challenge also endured by other family members. By age 15, he had undergone 16 major surgeries, spending countless summers in the hospital. It was there that he nurtured a love for reading and building model cars. Glen was actively involved in the daily workings of the family farm, which transitioned over the years to dairy, cattle, and crops. Guided by parents who taught him toughness and perseverance, Glen grew into a man defined not by limitations but by strength, determination, and a relentless refusal to let obstacles stand in his way-qualities that would define his character throughout his life.

Early Life and Education

Growing up in a small town, Glen’s childhood was shaped by his two sisters and a close group of best friends who were a constant part of his daily life. Glen graduated as salutatorian from Strother High School, where he stood out in a class of just twenty-four students. Initially considering a career as a veterinarian, Glen ultimately decided to pursue his passion for building. He attended Oklahoma State University in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, graduating in 1971 with a degree in Agricultural Engineering. During his college years, Glen juggled several jobs—working at Hideaway Pizza and spending summers picking peas for Jolly Green Giant when he wasn’t helping out on the family farm.

Family and Adventures

Glen met Bonnie, the love of his life, in 1977. She was the daughter of Edward Coon, who, along with her brother Bryan, operated Coon Engineering—a firm that happened to be a competitor of Glen’s. Though initially nervous about asking her out, Glen found unexpected support from Ed, who told Bonnie firmly, “Do not mess this up.”

What began as a friendship soon grew into a deep and lasting partnership. Glen and Bonnie were married in 1980. Glen wholeheartedly embraced fatherhood, adopting Bonnie’s daughter Jill, and in the years to follow, they welcomed their son Josh. Together, they built a loving home and raised their family in Edmond, Oklahoma.

The Smith family treasured their time on the road, often traveling together by car to explore national parks, coastlines, and everything in between. Their most cherished adventure was a trip to the British Virgin Islands. Glen had a deep love for the water—whether it was a river, lake, or ocean—and often shared this passion with Jill as they rented small sailboats during their travels. Glen and Bonnie spent many fun weekends at Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma, accompanied by their favorite cocktail and the laid-back sounds of Jimmy Buffett.

An avid fisherman, Glen enjoyed his time on the White River in Arkansas, where he organized countless trips with clients, friends, and family. For Glen, it was never just about the fishing—it was about the company, the stories, and the laughs shared along the way. He often joked they weren’t fishing trips—they were catching trips—because no one ever came home empty-handed, in fish or in memories.

They embraced life on the move, journeying across the U.S. in their Sprinter van—from the beaches of California to the landmarks of Washington, D.C. Their travels also took them abroad, including scenic river cruises through Europe and unforgettable trips to Alaska, Hawaii, and Vancouver Island. In their later years, Glen and Bonnie treasured peaceful weekends and holidays at Grand Lake, Oklahoma, and in Durango, Colorado, where they soaked in the breathtaking views and the quiet beauty of nature.

Passions and Community Involvement

It’s hard to imagine anyone who loved Oklahoma State University more than Glen. For over thirty years, Glen and Bonnie were devoted OSU football and basketball season ticket holders, building a lifetime of memories with friends and family. From cheering in the stands to traveling to bowl games and tournaments—especially those shared with Josh and Connor—their passion for the Cowboys was a constant source of joy and connection.

One of Glen’s greatest pastimes was solving problems. He was the ultimate tinkerer—whether it was assembling intricate LEGO sets with grandkids, repairing a broken appliance, or restoring a classic Cobra, Glen always had a project on the go. Whatever he tackled, he did it with skill, focus, and a deep sense of satisfaction.

Glen proudly supported Jill through local and national cheerleading competitions and coached Josh’s YMCA and church league basketball teams. Over the years, Glen became a beloved “second dad” to many of Josh and Jill’s friends, welcoming them into the family home, OSU tailgates, and lake trips—often greeting them with his signature custom handshakes. One of Glen’s favorite traditions was taking the family back to the farm each year, sharing the place where he grew up, and creating lasting memories as his children experienced the same simple joys he had known in his youth.

Professional Achievements and Legacy

In 1981, Glen co-founded Smith-Roberts and Associates, and later went on to co-found PZR—Planning, Zoning, and Resources. He was a licensed professional engineer and professional land surveyor in Oklahoma, with extensive experience in private sector projects involving planning, drainage, water, sewer, and paving. As a consulting engineer, Glen worked on numerous state and municipal projects dealing with drainage, roadway, and utility relocation. As a surveyor, he partnered with many of the nation’s largest title companies and law firms, providing A.L.T.A. surveys for real estate mergers and acquisitions.

Glen’s dedication to the engineering and surveying professions was exceptional. He recently concluded his third, six-year term as a member of the State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Surveyors, marking the end of an extraordinary 18-year tenure. Originally appointed in 2006 by Governor Brad Henry, Glen was reappointed by Governor Mary Fallin and again by Governor Kevin Stitt. Glen demonstrated exceptional dedication to the advancement of the engineering and surveying professions. He played a key role in a wide array of board initiatives and contributed extensively to interprofessional collaboration. He served on Joint Task Force Committees between OSLS and the Board, and the Board of Architects and the Board. These efforts promoted unity and mutual understanding across the design professions and shaped a more coordinated regulatory environment.

At the national level, he represented Oklahoma within the NCEES, and, in 2019, was honored with the NCEES Southern Zone Distinguished Service Award. Glen’s commitment, insight, and leadership have left a lasting impact on the Board, the State of Oklahoma, and the engineering and surveying communities.

Family and Remembrances

Glen was preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife Bonnie, his sisters Karen Luce (Chris) and Lynda Sims, his son Josh (Lindsey), his daughter Jill (Jeff), and his grandchildren Connor, Greyson, Bailey, Kade, and Knox.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, September 26, 2025, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, 201 E. 2nd St., Edmond, OK 73034. A reception is to immediately to follow.

In lieu of flowers, Glen requested that memorial tributes be made to: Fine Arts Institute of Edmond or the Oklahoma State University - College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology (CLEAT) Scholars Program Fund - [26-41600] - CEAT Scholars Program Fund.

 CLICK HERE to watch the live streaming of the service.