Gerald R. Smith's Obituary
Gerald R. Smith, 86, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Ascension All-Saints Hospital.
Gerald was born on July 27, 1930 in Muskegon, MI, to Charles and Lillian (nee Veceh) Smith. He was united in marriage to Joanne Larson in Waukegan, IL, on November 22, 1949. Joanne passed away in 1971. Gerald married Donna Casson on October 30, 1989.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Gerald worked at J.I. Case as a machinist for many years. He served as Union President of Local 180 for three terms. He also was Executive Chairman of the AFL-CIO Region 10 in Detroit. Gerald had a passion for fishing and hunting. He was a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan. Above all, Gerald was a family man, and he loved his children very dearly.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Donna; his children: Denis Smith, Christine (Gerald “Doc”) Olson, and Raymond (Deborah) Smith; grandchildren: Eric Olson, Lindsay Smith, Justin Smith, Heather Smith, and Kyle (Mikayla) Smith. Gerald is also survived by many other relatives and friends.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lillian Smith; granddaughter, Becca Smith; sister, Marge Johnson; and daughter-in-law, Lisa Benicek.
A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 12:00 P.M. at Wilson Funeral Home with Colleen Vice officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service.
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