Obituary of Garry Dean Smith

Garry Dean Smith

October 26, 1947 - July 17, 2024

Garry is survived by his wife of 32 years, Regina D. Smith; his son, Scott E. Smith; along with many other friends and relatives. He passed peacefully in his wife’s arms after a courageous fight to overcome massive stroke damage.

Garry worked at Fisher Body in Flint, Michigan for 20 years as a member of UAW Local #581, where his grandfather, Robert Keith, was instrumental in the Sit Down Strike of 1937.

After retirement from Fisher Body, he became interested in the HVAC field, then started his own company S.O.S. Heating and Cooling, Inc. in 1999, after studying and receiving his license. He became good friends with many of his customers and suppliers over the years.

Garry lived and was an active member of several communities over the years including Flint, Grand Blanc, Gaines, Otisville, and finally St. Charles, as well as Mio.

Mio was a base camp for one of his favorite pastimes, Dirt Bike riding, which he and his friends did on trails all over Michigan for many years.  His last ride was in February of 2024. Garry loved spending time in the woods, at their cabin which was passed down to him by his grandparents. He loved no place on earth more.

His many interests ranged from reading, music, movies, road trips, attending motocross and supercross races, annoying those he loved, and being an animal lover who owned many dogs and tolerated all the animals Regina snuck into their home. Garry was kind, quiet, funny, a pacifist, and very mischievous. He was raised in The Church of Christ and loved God.

Garry was especially blessed with his long friendship with Patrick O’Sullivan, who was his dirt bike partner for over 50 years. Pat and Garry were mistaken for brothers many times.  

As were his wishes, there will be no funeral service. Regina will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date, in Mio. If you would like to honor Garry’s memory, feel free to make a memorial contribution to Tri Township Fire Department in St. Charles, Michigan. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.

 

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