Francis Lenard Smith, age 66, of Lapeer, Michigan, died July 9, 2003 at McLaren Regional Hospital, Flint, Michigan. Frank was born December 28, 1936 in Algonac, St. Clair County, Michigan. He was the son of George Eldon Clarence and Mary Katherine (Savage) Smith.

As a child, Frank resided in the North Branch area and attended Dodds and Oak Grove Country Schools. He lived in Miami, Florida, for a short time, before returning to Columbiaville where he lived until 1983 when he moved to Lapeer. In 1956 he started he own business, Frank's Appliance and Refrigeration Service, he retired in 1999. Frank formerly worked for Ternstedt for 10 years, 1 year at the Chevy Assembly Plant, and briefly worked for the Fisher Farm in Romeo, Lapeer State Home and Hanson's Refrigeration. Frank had his camera with him everywhere he would go. He was an avid collector, active in genealogy, local history, WW II events, and a big fan of John Wayne. He was a quite character to all that knew him.

Frank is survived by his children; Debi Smith (Fiancé Bob Wlodarczyk) of Lapeer, Michigan, Jeff (Eileen) Smith of Attica, Michigan, Tim (Shannon) Smith of Mayville, Michigan, Susan Long of Fostoria, Michigan, and Holly Ann Jacot of Lapeer, Michigan, grandchildren; Cassandra, Brooke, Jacob, Ryan and Bill Smith, Joshua Jacot, Tyler and Devon Henry; sisters; Grace (Ralph) Dodds of North Branch, Michigan, Delores (Junior) Wells of Virginia, brother, Lloyd McClure of Oregon and former wives; Joanne Smith of Lapeer, Michigan and Marieann Brooke of Newberry, Michigan, several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Clemens, brothers; Ron Mitchell, Allen Smith and Jerry Smith.

A graveside service will be held July 12, 2003 at the North Branch Burlington Cemetery, North Branch, Michigan.

Arrangements by Blackburn Chapel-Martin Funeral Home

BACK TO OBITUARIES