Karl Edward Smith, 88, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2019 in Cookeville, Tennessee. Born April 27, 1931 in Ypsilanti, Michigan to Roy and Mae (Warboy) Smith, Karl was a longtime associate at Wyeth Laboratories in Mason, until his retirement in 1996. Following his retirement, Karl and Elaine moved to Cookeville, Tennessee where they enjoyed 21 years.
Karl was always active in his parish community, whether in Williamston or Cookeville. He was a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus member, and was active in many church events and causes. His deep sense of community service was also reflected in his role as the Jackson County Commissioner.
He was a skilled outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, and take the family on camping adventures. He could often be found tinkering – there was very little that he couldn’t fix or build from scratch, including a house.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his children, Douglas Smith, Scott Smith, and Michele Smith; and his siblings, Robert Smith, Bernard Smith, Ruth Hoeppner, Ivy Mikan, and Burton Smith.
His generous spirit will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Elaine (Martin) Smith; his children, Linda (Dan) Heaven, Gerald (Bobbie) Smith, Tonia Denslow, and Bernard (Kelli) Smith; stepchildren, Al Bray and Robin Bray; his sister, Ilene Publiski; and his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 11am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 157 High St., Williamston. Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Williamston.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the Mass, and on Friday, December 20, 2019 from 4pm until 7pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Williamston Chapel, 205 E. Middle St., in Williamston.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852 or to Right to Life of Michigan, PO Box 901, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49509.
