Stephen Arthur Smith

Born on June 13, 1949, in Foxborough, Massachusetts, Stephen was the son of Virginia Mae (Lusk) and Milton G. E. Smith, Jr. He was a proud resident of Bonita Springs, Florida.

Stephen graduated from Woburn High School in Massachusetts in 1968.

On June 26, 1976, he married Ingrid Knudsen in Santa Barbara, California. Together, they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage.

Stephen was known for his outgoing nature and deep love for his family, especially his four grandchildren. Though he was humble and unassuming, his caring nature was evident to all who knew him. His passions included cars, motorcycles, and autocross, and he loved engaging in conversations about these interests. Stephen was also a dedicated volunteer at Hope City Church, where he served as a security guard for the children's services.

In addition to his volunteer work, Stephen was a skilled furniture builder, running his own studio for many years. He also worked as a fueler for Ogden Aviation in St. Louis, MO, and more recently, as a security guard at Quail Creek Estates in Naples.

Stephen enjoyed trying out new restaurants in town and traveling with his wife to visit family.

An Air Force veteran and a hardworking individual, Stephen was also a devoted animal lover, particularly fond of his miniature schnauzer, Morgie.

Stephen is survived by his beloved wife, Ingrid Ann (Knudsen) Smith; his loving children, Soren (Melinda) Smith and Kari Smith; his dear grandchildren, Ella, Audrey, Charlotte, and Stellan; his sister, Crystal (Joe) Pecora, and their children Joey, Jeremy, and Jennifer; as well as his sister-in-law, Karn (John) Glaze, and their children Jeremy, Jennifer, Amanda, and granddaughters Aaliyah and Leegan. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law Kristine Reidenbach, who leaves behind her husband Dennis Reidenbach, and their children Erik, Matthew (Rachel), and their grandchildren Jeremiah, Liesal, and Kaleb.

A celebration of Stephen's life will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Hope City Church, 12871 Trade Way Dr., Bonita Springs, FL 34135.