Durke Smith

09/07/1941 - 09/13/2025

Durke Edward Joseph Smith, age 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025 after a short illness. Durke was born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI and while having a residence in Seminole for many years, Grand Rapids was always "home". Durke came from humble beginnings but due to hard work, perseverance and determination, he went on to build a highly successful and enjoyable life. A man of strong Catholic Faith, he was a graduate of Catholic Central High School and earned an associate degree from Grand Rapids Junior College. He went on to work for Steelcase for 31 years, working a variety of positions but most proud of his time as a systems analyst and his management roles. He proudly retired at the age of 50, giving him time to work various jobs and to spend quality time with his wife, Lynn and his family. Durke was always on the move be it by trains, planes or automobiles, RV's and motorcycles- in his younger years. He had a love for being out in nature, traveling, boating and camping especially at Hardy Dam and on their lot on Lake Michigan in Shelby, MI. He enjoyed live music and dancing and was always the life of the party. Durke was a military buff, especially World War II and Civil War. He gladly shared his love for these passions with his family and was known for taking pictures of everything. Durke will lovingly be remembered by his wife of 43 years, Lynn; his children, Kevin Smith, Sr (Karen), Paul Smith (Irene), Steve Smith (Kathleen Conlin), Kasie Carlson; his grandchildren, Kevin Smith Jr, Bradley Smith, Nicholas Smith (Becca), Michael Smith, Brittany Hagopian, Titania Lyon (Jon), Kathryn Kerr (Nick), Skyler Carlson, McKenzie Carlson, Tessa Carlson; 11 great grandchildren; siblings, sisters, Janine Ottenweiss, Patti Stefans (Rick); brother, Fred Smith (Nancy); brother-in-law, Jerry Fouch (Sue); and step brother, Charles (Chuck) Wirtz (Joann). He was preceded in death by his brother, David; and his sister, Denise Brower. The funeral service for Durke will be held at 11 AM on Monday, September 29, at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI with Deacon Peter Comigliaro, officiating. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Durke may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) and would be greatly appreciated.