Frederick Paul Smith

Frederick Paul Smith, age 80 of Chesterfield, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2021 surrounded by the love of his family.

Fred was born on March 20, 1940 to Charles and Cecilia Smith in Detroit, Michigan. As a young man at Denby High school, fate would lead Fred to meet the love of his life (and future bride) Joyce Ann Thompson while sitting in the classroom. Joyce immediately caught his eye, and they began dating in the 11th grade. At the age of 21, Fred married Joyce in Detroit, Michigan. Shortly after they wed, Fred was drafted into the United States Army and stationed in Germany. Joyce joined him overseas, and for two years they lived in Bad Nauheim, Germany as Fred served his country as a member of the 3rd Armor Division as a tank driver.  Their time in Germany was the experience of a lifetime and it gave them life lifelong friendships and plenty of “Army stories” for all to enjoy.  During that time they had their first daughter, Debbie. Their family grew once again after they returned to the states with the birth of their second daughter Pattie. Fred loved to be a dad to his two daughters, and proved time and time again to be one of the best dads there could be. For many years Fred worked in the tool and die business as a journeyman and machine builder.  He could fix and build anything. Not only could he engineer these big machines he also could build anything out of wood, do plumbing, electrical, welding - if anything was broke – he could figure out how to fix it.  He had his own business Custom Designs Unlimited – and a lot of his work is still standing strong today in people’s kitchens, basements, decks, doctors’ offices, funeral homes, and restaurants.  He did quality craftsmanship…something that is very hard to find today.  He also could fix problems of the heart and worries with his support, words of wisdom, corny jokes and big comforting hugs.   In his free time, Fred liked to golf, mow his grass on his trusty riding mower, and travel with his family. Together, he and his family visited every state (besides Alaska and Hawaii) and most of Canada in their customized by Freddie van. Fred was also extremely dedicated to his faith, and very active in his parish communities of Our Lady Queen of Peace while living in Detroit and later after moving to Chesterfield,   St. Francis- St.  Maximilian.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand and loved serving as an Usher/Minister of Hospitality to welcome all who walked thru the church’s door.  We look forward to the day when we meet again, as he will be waiting to greet us with his warm, genuine smile as we walk thru heaven’s door. 

Fred will be forever remembered as a dedicated and loving husband, father, father in law, uncle, brother, and friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Beloved husband of 59 years to Joyce Smith; loving dad to Debbie Smith, and Pattie (Shaun) Kaminski; dear brother of MaryJo (the late Roger) Piccinini; loved brother in law of Allen and Dolly Houth. Fred was also survived by many wonderful nephews, nieces, and great & special life long friends.

Fred was preceded in passing by his parents Charles and Cecilia Smith.

His funeral Mass will be lived streamed on the church's Facebook page, link below.

http://m.facebook.com/stfrancisstmaximilian/

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