Frederic R. Smith Sr.

Frederic R. Smith, Sr., known affectionately as Fred to his family and friends, was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on March 13, 2026 in Mishawaka, Indiana after a brief but courageous battle with leukemia. Born on May 31, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, Fred was a beacon of kindness and humor, leaving a legacy of love and cherished memories.

The son of the late Dr. Robert M. and Edith (Cooper) Smith, Fred grew up in Detroit with a close-knit family and values that he carried throughout his life. He was the beloved husband of the late Wilma Winkelman, whom he married on October 2, 1954, and who preceded him in death on March 7, 2017. Fred's sister, Beverly Smith, also preceded him in death. Finding love again, he married Carol Kline on August 1, 2020, who survives him, alongside a family that he adored and nurtured with every fiber of his being.

Fred was a devoted father to his children, Frederic Jr. (Jan) Smith of Stevensville, Michigan, Robert (Tereasa) Smith of Martin, Tennessee, Janice (Wayne) Gilpatrick of North Port, Florida, and Melissa (Wei) You of South Bend, Indiana. He was a doting grandfather to eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, who will miss his stories and laughter. His family circle included his sisters, Kathy McNally of Palm Beach, Florida, and Susan (William) Peddie of Corvallis, Montana. Carol's family, including her children Wendy Stalcup of South Bend, Laurie Jewett of Osceola, Angela (Larry) Lucas of South Bend, and her ten grandchildren twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, all held a special place in Fred's heart.

Fred's professional life was marked by a long and distinguished career in the telephone industry, retiring after dedicated service with General Telephone and Siemens. His work ethic and commitment to excellence were only matched by his dedication to his faith and more recently as a member of the Christian Center Church.

An avid fisherman, Fred could often be found on the water, rod in hand, enjoying the serenity of nature. His passion for all planes, especially World War II era, was not only a hobby but a tribute to the history he respected deeply. A NASCAR enthusiast, he loved the thrill of the race and the camaraderie of fellow fans. Known for his affinity for feeding squirrels, he found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Fred was also a man of faith, finding solace and strength in reading the Bible, which guided him through life's challenges and triumphs.

Frederic R. Smith, Sr. was the quintessential family man, wholly dedicated to his wife, children, and grandchildren. He provided for his family with unwavering commitment and a great sense of humor that never failed to uplift those around him. Described by those who knew him best as loving, kind, and funny, Fred's warmth and generosity touched many lives.

A celebration to honor Fred's life will be officiated by Pastor Mark Lantz at Noon on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Christian Center Church at 530 E. Ireland Road, South Bend, Indiana 46614.

Memorial donations may be made in Fred's name to Christian Center Church or National Kidney Foundation at 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016.

Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.

As we bid farewell to Fred, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His legacy of love, laughter, and faith will continue to inspire us all. Fred will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.