Lawrence O. "Smitty" Smith

Lawrence O. "Smitty" Smith, 90, of Buchanan, formerly of Galien, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Buchanan Meadows.
Smitty was born on June 15, 1935, in Bald Knob, Arkansas, to Ralph and Faye (Manley) Smith. During his early childhood the family moved to Michigan, where he graduated from Galien High School, class of 1953. An accomplished athlete, he played several sports and was proudly part of the school's first-ever football team. His yearbook quote, "There is mischief in this man," has become a favorite memory for his family.
From 1955 to 1957, Smitty honorably served in the United States Army, working as a Speed Radio Operator. After returning home, he married the love of his life, Michalene "Mickie" (Koziel) Smith, on May 7, 1960. The two shared 53 years of marriage before her passing in 2013. In her final years, Smitty was a devoted caregiver, and after her passing, he continued to show his love by bringing homemade lunches to his daughters just to spend time with them.
Smitty lived a full and active life. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, making several memorable trips to Canada with family. He loved snowmobiling and was known as the king of the grass tracks with his '68 Ski-Doo 640 TnT. Smitty's plaid flannel shirts became a familiar sight, a style that reflected his down-to-earth nature. A master at finding morel mushrooms, he also played softball well into his 60s, often as an ace pitcher. Smitty was a proud Trump supporter and most of all a dedicated Michigan State fan. He made it clear that nothing should be scheduled on game days, especially when basketball or softball were on.
Known for his strong work ethic, he worked at Bosch right out of the Army on their Naval Missile Program. He then spent more than 40 years at Weldun International before retiring. Retirement didn't slow him down as he went on to run his own business (often with the help of his son Scott), Smitty's Precision Machines, for another decade until his eyesight declined.
Though reserved by nature, Smitty's deep love for his family was always evident. He treasured yearly family vacations, often out West, and his most cherished memories were made simply being with those he loved.
Smitty is survived by his children, Juli (John) O'Bryant of Three Oaks, Jeanne (Jerry) Woodrick of Niles and Scott Smith of Niles; grandchildren, Jason (Meagen) O'Bryant, Courtney (Matt) Eifler, Jayme (Emily) Friedman, and Derek (Melanie) Blank; great-grandchildren, Kaden O'Bryant, Coy Eifler, Liam Friedman and Tillie Eifler; brother, Dave (Rita) Smith and special Goddaughter, Beth Przybylinski.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Buchanan Meadows for their loving care. Smitty liked to think he "ran the place" and always kept his candy drawer full for "his" caregivers. Your compassion meant the world to him and to his family.
A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4-6 pm on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Swem Chapel, 301 W. Front St., Buchanan. Military honors will be rendered by the United States Army at 5:30 pm. Inurnment will take place at a later date in St. John Kanty Cemetery, New Prairie, IN. Memorial contributions may be made in care of Jeanne Woodrick to place a memorial bench at Buchanan Meadows in Smitty's memory. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.swemchapel.com.