Jim was born the son of Paul and Virginia (Moore) Smith in Pontiac, Michigan on November 6, 1947. He graduated from Rochester High School, class of 1966 and served his country in Vietnam. Jim earned his associates degree and became a licensed plumber. He married Susan Wease on January 31, 1970 at United Presbyterian Church in Royal Oak, Michigan. Jim worked at TACOM, Selfridge, and owned his own business during his career. He was a member of the Rochester Eagles.
Jim loved taking his family on trips, especially to historical places. He enjoyed watching sports and was an MSU fan. He especially enjoyed his grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Susan Smith; children Tracy (Brad) Irwin, Brad (Melisa) Smith, and Kristy (Scott) Melquist; grandchildren Daniel Irwin, Emma Smith, Lillian Smith, and Brailey Melquist; siblings Donna Wiles, Lyn Brown, Mark (Ellen) Smith, Eric (Suzanne) Bane, Mike Smith, and Susie (Mark) Beaver; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim is predeceased by his parents Paul and Virginia Smith; and sister Lea Smith.
Jim’s family welcomes all to a visitation on Thursday April 22nd, 2021 from 4 p.m. until the time of the sharing of memories service at 7 p.m. at Grace Apostolic Church, located at 700 East Elmwood Avenue in Clawson, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society at the church or online at www.stjude.org or www.cancer.org.
