Obituary for Frank Richard Smith

Frank Richard Smith, age 91, devoted husband, father and grandfather went to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 with his family at his side. He was born on August 21, 1931 in Levering, MI the son of James and Myrtle (Ball) Smith. Frank was a longtime resident of Traverse City. He was a faithful church member that loved the Lord and he served at many local churches. His greatest joy was serving Jesus and sharing his faith with everyone he met, Frank never met a stranger during his lifetime. He was known as a mechanic extraordinaire, tinkering on all kinds of engines and he could make anything run. Frank was employed by the State of Michigan as a bus inspector and retired after many years. It gave him great joy to camp with his family, which included roasting hot dogs, sharing spiritual wisdom with his family and indulging his grandchildren with endless hours of fun. Frank was married to the love of his life, Rose Marie “Lovie” for 69 years and she preceded in him in death on September 9, 2020. Surviving are his children, Linda and Steve DeGroft, Janet and Jack Dutton, Gary and Nancy Smith and Patty and Gary Coleman; Eric and Lucretia Smith, Ben and Amanda Smith, Ryan and Jill Smith, Janel and Jess Ray, Matthew and Mary DeGroft, Cheresa and Kyle Priestly, Angela and David Miedema, David and Jordan Coleman, Jon and Julia Coleman and Jen and Geoff Zeller; several great grandchildren; sister, Elizabeth Schneider; brother, James and Margaret Smith; several nieces and nephews. Religious Services will be conducted by Pastor Gary Coleman with several other family members at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, July 27, 2023 at First Baptist Church, 406 E. Bridge St., Portland. The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. A luncheon will follow the service at the church. Interment will be next to his beloved “Lovie” in Oakwood Cemetery, Traverse City on Friday. Memorial contributions may be made to a church camp in memory of Frank. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.