Vernon Thomas Smith

He was born on September 25, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, the 3rd of 6 children to Raymond Alexander and Jeanette (Godin) Smith. He attended and graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1952. Vernon met Janice Ralle in September 1952 at Detroit Memorial Hospital’s X-Ray Technology school. They wed on June 25, 1955. Vernon worked briefly as an x-ray technologist and joined the Detroit Police department, where he had a 25 year career. During his career with the Detroit Police Department, he was a member of the Motor Traffic Bureau’s precision drill team performing at the Michigan State fair for a number of years. Vernon was promoted to the rank of sergeant before retiring from the police force. He finished his work career as a security officer at Detroit’s St. John’s Hospital. Vernon enjoyed bowling, golfing, hiking and travelling with his wife Janice. One of their most memorable trips was an Alaskan Cruise. He was a huge Detroit sports fan and an avid Red Wings fan. Most importantly, he was a dedicated family man, making sure his children had enjoyable and memorable vacations that included trips to Canada and Iowa and later spending time at a cottage in northern Michigan. Janice and Vernon moved to Apache Junction, Arizona in 2002.

Vernon is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janice Ralle Smith; son Stephen and husband David Harenchar, son Michael and wife Marie, daughters Laura Cleveland, Anne Addesso and husband Allen, Jill Kamphefner and husband Tom, Jennifer Chigas and husband John; sisters Lorraine Ezyk, Lois Sawielski; 16 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Mass will be held October 3rd 9AM at St Paul of Tarsus, 41300 Romeo Plank, Clinton Twp., MI.

Inurnment of Ashes – immediately following mass at Resurrection Cemetery, 18201 Clinton River Rd, Clinton Twp., MI. Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care of Mesa, Arizona is in care of arrangements.

Remembrances may be made to St. Jude Children Hospital.