Joseph Junior Smith

Joseph Junior Smith, 91, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 1st, 2019. Joe, as people knew him was a lifelong resident of Traverse City and was born to Albert and Theresa (Mikula) Smith on February 25th, 1928.

Joe was always an active member in the community and was known for his unwavering work ethic. Joe was an Army veteran of the Korean War before becoming an indispensable asset to the Brown Lumber Company in which he gave 33 years to.

Joe’s real passion was his wife Hannah (Richter) of 38 years, and his family in which he enjoyed bowling with, he made sure he attended every family event they had, was at every Sunday dinner, and made sure he was involved in his grandchildren’s lives by always asking how school and work was going. He even jumped into the digital age by collaborating with his great grandson for a basketball trick shot video that was posted to YouTube.

Joe was a kind and soft individual who didn’t take life too seriously. He had an unforgettable smile and laugh. He would laugh at any joke you told and smiled with pride at it, and everyone will miss his typical “Yellow” response to answering the phone and his old saying “So…that’s the way it goes.” Joe truly spent his 91 years living life to the fullest. Joe Joe Dancer, 6 foot 9 ½, you were loved by all, rest easy.

Joe is survived by his step daughter Ruth (Herkner) Richardson, and son-in-law Michael Richardson. 2 Grandchildren; Scott Richardson and Melissa (Michael) Hampel, and 3 great-grandchildren; Jerry Richardson, Hannah Hampel, and Vincent Hampel.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife Hannah, his parents, and brothers.

A gathering will be held for Joe at Memorial Gardens Cemetery on Thursday, April 4th, 2019 at 11:00am with a short service to follow at 12:00pm. 3575 Veterans Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684 .