Thomas J. Smith
Thomas J. Smith, Hersey MI, passed away peacefully after a lingering illness on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the age of 82 with his caring and loving family at his side. He was born on July 18th, 1940, at his home in Amble, MI, to the late Robert F. Smith and Wilma (Billie) C. (Keeler) Smith.
He graduated from Midland High School and from Great Lakes Junior College with an associates degree.
He was proud to serve in the Air Force from 1959 thru 1963.
After serving in the Air Force, he worked at Sonoco Fibre Drum and retired after 30 years. He also retired from the City of Midland after 10 years.
He married the love of his life who he often called “my bride” to Connie M. Pickvet on September 12, 1992, at St. Michael’s Church in Pinconning, MI.
He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #5280.
He enjoyed reading the daily newspaper with his Coca-Cola, taking the dogs for walks, hunting, nature, camping, traveling, and watching his favorite shows on TV. His ultimate favorite love was being with his wife and son. He was a true, kind, gentleman and lived life with a positive attitude.
Surviving along with his loving wife of 30 years, his son, Theron J. Smith, brother Denver and Connie Wilson, sister and brother-in-law’s Wayne Pickvet, Denice and Steve Novak, Sherry and Gary Lightner, Gary and Tina Pickvet, Mary Lou Pashak, Beverly and Mike Katt, Renee and Tom Rugenstein, Keith and Marilyn Pickvet, Bryan and Carrie Pickvet, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, father and mother-in-law Clifford J. and Bernice M. Pickvet, brother-in-law Ed Pashak, his best friend and cousin Dirk McKimmy.
A special thank you to Altercare of Big Rapids and Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, November 4, 2022, at 11 am from Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Matt Federico presiding with inurnment in St. Michael’s Cemetery with full military funeral honors. Friends may visit at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home Thursday, from 4 to 8 pm. On Friday, friends may visit at church from 10 am until time of mass.
Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Pinconning, MI, was in charge of arrangements.