Obituary of David Smith

David Allen Smith was born in Muncie, Indiana on December 10, 1937. He was one of seven children born from the late Robert Leonard Smith and Beulah Bell (Rhea). After graduating from Royerton High School, David honorably served our country for four years in the United States Air Force. He married the love of his life, Louise Houghtaling, on August 13, 1960 in Roseville, Michigan. Together they raised their family in Ypsilanti, eventually moving and making Newport their home in 1998. David had a very quiet and giving spirit about him. He would do anything for anyone in need and was a great provider for his family supporting them as a Service Manager for several car dealerships. David was extremely gifted mechanically and could fix anything that was broken. As an avid sports fan, David appreciated the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings and he himself enjoyed bowling and golfing. As a loving family man, he treasured the time he spent with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. David Allen Smith, age 76, of Newport passed away at 7:13pm, on Thursday, May 29, 2014 at home surrounded by his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by a daughter: Michele; and five sisters: Mona, Martha, Janet, Carolyn, and Dottie Bea. To cherish his memory he leaves his wife of 53 years, Louise Smith; four children: Lora (Tony) Jackson of Ypsilanti Township, Julie (Brian) Bush of Ypsilanti Township, Cara Smith-Hudge of Newport, and Megan Smith-Hudge of Newport; two sisters: Judy Jenkins and Romona (Perry) Fox; seven grandchildren: Jennifer Jackson, Jessica (Jon) Rickabaugh, Amanda Jenkins-Cain, Andrea (Sean) Brennan, Ashlee Bush, Brian Bush Jr. and Joshua (Jessica) Hudge; five great grandchildren: Kayla, Ty, Ayana, Jacyln, and Jordyn; and several nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, Monroe (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, 8212 North Telegraph Road in Newport. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.