Daniel Smith

Published 12:27 pm Monday, December 16, 2024

October 13, 1949 – December 9, 2024

Daniel Mark Smith passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born October 13, 1949, in Dowagiac, Michigan to the late Evelyn and Alvin “Bus” Smith.

His passion for adventure led him to Long Beach, California where he was soon joined by the love of his life, Margaret Hogue of Hartford. They wed on March 21, 1971, and made their first home there together before returning to Michigan.

Daniel was a loving father to his three daughters, always protective of their happiness and comfort. He was always willing to help his girls in any way needed. He enjoyed taking the family on summer vacation every year where he could indulge his love of exploring and curiosity.

In addition to a career at Jessup Door Company, Daniel earned his CDL and spent time as a long-distance truck driver. He would often entertain his family and friends with tales of his unique and often comical experiences driving across the country. In later years Daniel assisted as a caregiver at Miracle Adult Foster Care in Three Rivers. There he served as a role model, advocate and friend to the residents.

Daniel is preceded in death by his parents; brother, William “Bill” (Karen) Bachelor; and sister, Maude (Levi) Schoff. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; daughters, Tricia (John) Sullivan of Kalamazoo, Tina Batten of Three Rivers, Tennille (David) Michalak of Vandalia; grandchildren, Bailey Makowski of Monroe, Josey Bryant of Vandalia, Jerry and Jack Batten of Mendon; siblings, Stella (John) Jakee of Traverse City, Ruby Rampoldt of Niles, David (Cindy) Smith of Lakeland, Florida, Marie (Ken) Cook of Dowagiac, Wesley (Carolyn) Smith of Buchanan, and Alvin Smith of Dowagiac.

Arrangements entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services 52780 M-40 Marcellus, MI 49067. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date and will be updated on the funeral home website as soon as the date is

set. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be directed to Hospital Hospitality House of Southwest Michigan or Centrica Rose Arbor Place. To leave an online condolence please visit, https://www.familyfirstfunerals.com