Garry D. Smith

SMITH, GARRY D.
Of Kalamazoo

Died peacefully on Thursday, July 3, 2014, in his home surrounded by those who loved him after succumbing to pancreatic cancer. Born December 13, 1948, in Kalamazoo to the late Orva and Juanita (Dennany) Smith. He is survived by his beautiful daughters: Debbie (Simon) Whiting of Wales Great Britain, Cristine Dela Riva (Rob Ellis) of Richmond, Illinois, Denise (Rick) Olson of Paw Paw, and Michele Smith of Plainwell; grandchildren: Christopher Bommer, Trent Dela Riva, Matthew Whiting, Mia Dela Riva, Sophie Whiting, Lauryn Foster, Emilia Whiting, and Samantha Olson; siblings: Sharon (Bill) Ford, Ron (Jerri) Smith, Mike (Anna) Smith, Dan Smith, and Pat (Tim) Wheeler, and many nieces, nephews and other relatives. After graduating from Kalamazoo Central, Garry went on to work for the United States Post Office where he proudly retired after 38 years of service. In retirement Garry spent a lot of time doing what he loved most which was traveling, being outdoors especially the woods, camping with family, Michigan's Upper Peninsula and his favorite lake, Lake Superior. Garry enjoyed the simple things in life like working in his yard, Tigers baseball, chocolate sodas, and riding his motorcycle. Garry was a man of strong faith and virtue and loved his savior our Lord Jesus Christ. He generously donated to many charities. Cremation has taken place. Friends are invited to visit with the family and celebrate Garry's life from 1-3 PM, Friday, July 11, 2014, at the Skyrise Apartments (525 Burdick St.). Please visit Garry's personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite memory or photo of him and sign his online guestbook. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Garry's name to a charity of your choice. Life Story Funeral Homes, Betzler - Kalamazoo; 6080 Stadium Drive (269) 375-2900