Harold Lloyd Smith, 86, of Traverse City passed away peacefully Friday, January 8, 2016 surrounded by his loving wife of 63 years and family.
Harold was born in Three Rivers, Michigan in 1929 to the late Clyde Smith and Pauline (Weatherbee) Smith. Along with his two sisters, Ardena and Huberta, he was raised by his mother and step father Hubert Spade. Growing up, Harold developed a love for hunting and fishing which continued throughout his life.
After completing high school, Harold served in the army for two years during the Korean War. Once home, he continued working as a gas station attendant for his step father where he met his beautiful wife Harriet (Mohney). They married on September 12, 1953 in Portage, MI. After marriage the couple moved to the Kingsley area and eventually transferred to Traverse City, where Harold ran and operated both the Kingsley and Traverse City Standard Oil Bulk Plants. Over the course of four decades he took great pride in his work, building a strong business and even stronger friendships.
Harold was industrious and enterprising throughout his life. With Harriet by his side he grew beautiful flower beds and maintained a pristine lawn that was the envy of many. For years Harold and Harriet sold cut flowers and provided bouquets for many special occasions. Harold eventually completed classes through Michigan State University to become a Master Gardener. In addition, he raised and sold Christmas trees, became an award winning photographer, and operated a bed and breakfast with Harriet. Harold enjoyed traveling in their motorhome with his wife and visiting campgrounds around the country. Often the camping trips would include the grandchildren, where many special memories and stories were made. In addition, Harold remained an avid outdoorsman, which included hiking, hunting, and fishing. Most of all, he enjoyed the time he spent bird hunting with his dogs. More than anything, Harold's top priority was enjoying time with his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend any activity that both his children and grandchildren were involved in.
Harold was an active member of Traverse Bay United Methodist Church for over 50 years. His welcoming smile and friendly handshakes and hugs will be greatly missed by many.
Harold is survived by his loving wife Harriet; daughter Julie (Tim) Holliday of Fife Lake; son, Keith (Lori) Smith of Traverse City; granddaughters Aubrianna and Allida Smith; grandson Kyle (Holly) Allen; great grandchildren Aiden and Emma; sister, Huberta (Bernard "Skip") Nisonger of Three Rivers; MI; and brother in law, Lane Wells of Three Rivers and many other loving family members and friends.
Harold was proceeded in death by his parents, step father, and step mother (Wilda); his sister Ardena Wells, and granddaughter Lorraine Allen.
A special thanks to all staff members at the Grand Traverse Pavilions for their attentive and loving care during Harold's final days.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 from 4pm until 7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday at 11am at the Traverse Bay United Methodist Church with a visitation beginning at 10am at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to either Grand Traverse Pavilions, 1000 Pavilions Circle-Traverse City, MI 49684 or Traverse Bay United Methodist Church, 1200 Ramsdell Road-Traverse City, MI 49684 on Harold's behalf. Kindly share thoughts and memories with Harold's family at
www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.