George Robert Smith, 78, of Interlochen, passed away September 10, 2016 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions.
George was born December 23, 1937 to the late George and Loretta (Quinn) Smith in The Detroit area.
First years of his life, he lived in Carlton, Mi., moving to Thompsonville and graduating from Copmish High School. There he excelled in sports and academics. He attended Lake Superior State in So. St. Marie.
On December 20, 1958 he married the love of his life, Ruth Ann (Ruthie) Komrska. They met that summer working at the National Music Camp. Together they raised two sons and one daughter.
George and Ruthie moved back to the area in 2003 after spending 37 years in Midland. George was a successful insurance agent during those years.
He was a member of the Elks, enjoyed travel and was an avid sports enthusiast.
Those, whom knew George, also knew he loved baseball, softball, basketball and curling. If and when he was not playing, he was coaching or watching. (George was proud that he played on the Class D Championship basketball team during high school)
George's great joy in life was being with and providing for his family. He was a serious man, but had a great sense of humor and will be remembered for his big friendly smile. To Ruthie, he was a romantic, writing beautiful notes and handmade Valentines. Listening and dancing to their music. To his children, he was the dad that protected them, helped buy their first cars, gave fatherly advice and was loved dearly. To his grandchldren he was the Grandpa that took them on walks and shared delicious treats and played silly games.
George is survived and deeply missed by his wife Ruthie, his son, Brad (Terri Zantello) Smith, his daughter Lisa (Gerald) Murphy and his two wonderful grandchildren; Alexia (Joshua) Cole, Greyson Murphy and the great-grand baby Cole on the way. He is also survived by his brother William G. Smith and many extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jeffery Smith, his brother Howard and his sisters; Alberta, Lila and Doris, as well as his in-laws; Leon and Ruth Cooper.
Per George's wishes cremation has taken place and there will be an open house for family and friends to celebrate his life Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016 from 2 until 4 p.m. at the Golden Fellowship Hall (Interlochen Public Library) 9700 Riley Rd., Interlochen. .
Those wishing to send a contribution in George's memory may do so to either the Alzheimer's Association; 921 W 11th St #1w, Traverse City, MI 49684, the American Heart Association; 3816 Paysphere Circle Chicago, IL 60674, or the Grand Traverse Pavilions; 1000 Pavillions Cir, Traverse City, MI 49684
Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your condolences or a special memory with George's family.
The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.