Craig P. Smith, age 87, of Grand Rapids/Bellaire, formerly of Midland, passed away Saturday, December 24, 2022, surrounded by family. Craig was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. After high school, he spent a year in college and then joined the Air Force. He married Carole Stine in 1960, they settled in Ann Arbor, and he joined AAA as a claims adjuster. They later moved to Midland where they spent many years. After retirement, they moved to his favorite place, the family cottage in Bellaire, MI. They moved to Grand Rapids in later years to be closer to family. Craig was an avid sports fan. He especially loved the University of Michigan football team and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He coached Little League for over 20 years in Midland, but what he loved most, was attending his grandkids’ sporting events. He had a love of cars and was always reminding his children and grandchildren of the required car maintenance. He is survived by Carole, his wife of 62 years; sons, Brent (Shellie) Smith, Scott (Kolleen) Smith; grandchildren, Derek Smith, Quinn Smith and fiancé Nichole, Loren (Nate) Scholtz, Connor Smith. The family would like to thank the staff at Village of Heather Hills for their care and support. A Celebration of Life will be held January 14, 2023, with visitation at 1:30 pm followed by a service at 2:00 pm at Heather Hills, 1055 Forest Hill Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Memorial donations in Craig’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
5 Responses
He was truly the best and will be so missed. Such a beautiful family and legacy hes left here ❤️
All my love,
Jessica
I am so very sorry for your loss! Craig was a great man and one I thought would live on forever! The support he gave our kids playing sports, I felt like he was their grandpa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, may he rest peacefully and watch over us all!
God Bless,
Eileen, Bill, Jake, Ally and Sam!
I was lucky enough to have worked with Craig at AAA Midland from 1986-1991, he was such a wonderful man and father like figure (since I was young at that time). He and the other Adjuster’s in Midland showed me reasons why I became a AAA Adjuster, and still am today. Several of us Claims girls from Midland still get together every year and he’s always brought up in our memories; we loved Craig. Prayers for peace, comfort, and strength, for Carole and his family.
During his retirement in northern Michigan, Craig served as a loyal and outgoing member of the Bellaire Community Fund, where he was instrumental, with his efforts, in enhancing our school athletic complex. He was also involved, in various capacities, with the Bellaire Football and Baseball programs. His energetic and charismatic personality was infectious to those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his warm, welcoming smile always conveyed that he was glad to see you! He will always be remembered for his friendship and his contribution to our community!
It’s been a long time since I remember talking with you Carole. I’m your cousin from Indiana The Hopkins family. Just wanted to say My Condolences to you and family and am sorry for your loss. Millie Told me about your loss. May he Rest in peace