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Donald Smith Obituary
Dimondale
On a beautiful sunny afternoon by his beloved Grand River, Don (Pete) Smith peacefully departed this life, surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 21, 2015. Don was born February 4, 1927 to Allen and Martha Smith in Lansing, MI. He graduated from Sexton High School in 1945 and was immediately drafted into the Army where he served as an M.P. during the postwar occupation of Germany. Then, it was home, a B.A. at Michigan State University, and a career in sales.
Don's greatest loves included: Eileen (50 years), Buffy, his daughters, Heather (Gregg) DeLadurantaye and Shawn (Bryan) Ruhf; his grandchildren: Gracie, Leland, Shannon, Allen (Liz), Lyndsay (Clint), Aren, Sheyna (Alex) Yount, Anthen, Joren, Abbie, and Edgrekia Blackmon. He also loved MSU, playing softball, making people laugh and finding the joy in life.
A Celebration Service will be Saturday, August 1st, 2015 at 12:00 noon at Grovenburg United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Joe Houston. The family will receive guests at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon immediately following the service. In Lieu of flowers please consider contributions to Grovenburg UMC, 1368 Grovenburg Rd., Holt, MI 48842, the little church Don loved so much. An online guest book is also available at www.palmerbush.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Smith
LORETTA STANAWAY
July 18, 2023
Don is missed still. He was a special part of the memories of Grovenburg UMC, of a group of wonderful people now, like the church, gone. He was one of a kind. Peace to his family and friends.
David Slayton
July 30, 2015
I have such great memories of Don and all the good times we had playing softball together. Just a wonderful man. Eileen, Heather and Shawn, I am very sorry to hear of your loss and pray that you and your extended family can find consolation in God's love.
Julie Reutter O'Neill
July 30, 2015
Heather and Shawn, So sorry to hear about your Dad. I have great memories of swimming in the pool and having pizza with cream of mushroom soup on top. He always had a smile on his face.
May your wonderful memories console you and your families in the days to come.
Mary DiFiore Pulford
July 27, 2015
Eileen, we are sorry to see about Don. On behalf of the families of Alma & Gabe DiFiore, our condolences to you and your family in this time of sorrow. Our parents had many wonderful years as your neighbors on the river in Dimondale.
Loretta Stanaway
July 27, 2015
I was so sorry to hear Don had passed away. I miss his cheerful countenance and will never forget him in his tuxedo at church events. My prayers are for the family to find God's peace and comfort.
Ruby Simons
July 24, 2015
My prayers are with you Heather and Shawn.I'll always cherish the memories and fun times with your family.The stories and laughs we had.Thanks for the memories Don !
Jim Strahan
July 24, 2015
So sorry to hear of Don's passing. He and my father were great friends for many, many years. I remember our family get-togethers and the fun times we shared throughout my younger years. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Mikes Auto Care
July 23, 2015
My prayers and deepest sympathy to Dons family. Don was one in a million and will be missed by all. Great guy, an inspiration for all of us that knew him. The world would be a better place if we were all more like Don Smith.
Jeri Grover
July 23, 2015
My thoughts and prayers go out to you both, Heather and Shawn, and your families. We will keep our wonderful memories of your father alive in our hearts. I will always remember his smile and jokester attitude, the way he made me feel like I was a part of his family, his love to have fun in any and all times spent with him. I will miss you, Don Smith. Thanks for the memories. :-)
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