Daniel C. Smith

Daniel C. Smith, 69, of Howe, IN, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of steady hands, and a heart deeply devoted to the people he loved.

Born on January 16, 1957, in Bath, New Brunswick, Canada, Daniel began life surrounded by the beauty of the place he would always consider home. Even after moving with his family to Michigan as a young boy and eventually settling in the Bronson area, Canada remained a cherished part of him-especially the memories of fishing trips with his cousins that he looked forward to throughout his life.

Daniel was a hardworking man who took pride in every job he held. For more than 20 years, he served as a group leader at Coachmen Industries, primarily at Plant #110. He spent many years working alongside his father at Smith Heating in Bronson, MI-time that shaped his work ethic and his knack for fixing just about anything.

If Daniel wasn't working, he was outside. He loved tinkering with his truck, lawn mowers, or whatever project caught his attention that day. Western movies and shows were a favorite pastime, and although he never owned a horse, he had a genuine affection for them and lit up whenever he was around them.

But nothing compared to the joy he found in his family. Daniel loved being surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren-teasing them, laughing with them, and soaking up every moment. His love for them was steady, playful, and unmistakably his.

On May 21, 1977, Daniel married the love of his life, Sheryl J. Moore, in LaGrange, IN. Together they built a life filled with love, resilience, and family at the center of it all. Sheryl survives along with their son and daughter-in-law, Jamey and Melissa Smith of Howe, IN; granddaughter and her fiancé, Emily Smith and Brody Robinett of Howe, IN; grandson and his wife, Dylan and Faith Smith of LaGrange, IN; and four great-grandchildren, Emery and Hadleigh Smith, and Atticus and Ellie Robinett. He is also survived by his mother and her boyfriend, Constance Bloss and Jan Reese of Coldwater, MI; and his siblings, Judy Hoard of Bronson, MI, Glenna Hoyt of Bronson, MI, Karen Kline of Coldwater, MI, Kevin and Lisa Smith of Sherwood, MI, Dwayne and Pati Smith of Bronson, MI, and Pamela Champion of St. Joseph, MI; and many nieces and nephews that he adored.

Daniel was preceded in death by his father, Donald Smith, and his son, Lucas Andrew Smith, whom he now joins in eternal rest.

Honoring Daniel's wishes, cremation will take place and no services will be held at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to The ARC of LaGrange County to support services for individuals with autism-an organization close to the family's heart.