Gary James Smith

Gary James Smith, 65 of Charlevoix, Michigan passed away on January 12, 2021 at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey, Michigan surrounded by his loving family.

Son of Joseph and Helen (Wanagheshik) Smith, Gary was born on January 5, 1956 in Chicago, Illinois. Gary grew up in Chicago and graduated from Senn High School. He then went to Haskell Indian Nations University and graduated with an associates degree in mechanics.

Gary and Anna (Kewagshken) Smith enjoyed 40 loving years together and were married on November 21, 1992 in Alba, Michigan.  

Gary served in the Army from 1974 to 1980.

Gary was a truck driver for Waste Management.

He was always there to help anyone in need. Gary would fix someone’s car and never ask for anything in return.

Gary liked running, and sports. He loved to gamble and going to the casino. His grandchildren were his pride.

He was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Anna Marie Smith; his children: Gary Reiser, James Kewagshken, Justin Brown, Linda Smith, and Kimberly Smith; his grandchildren: Anthony Kewagshken, Jamie Cross-George, James Kewagshken Jr., Nevaeh Smith, Noah Smith-Shalifoe; his great-grandchild Armani Kewagshken; his sister Barbara St. Germaine; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gary is preceded in death by his daughters April Cross and Marlene Kewagshken; his sister Arlene Smith; and his parents Helen and Joseph Smith.

Those wishing to make a charitable donation are asked to consider giving to the Smith family to help them with unanticipated expenses.

A funeral service for Gary will be officiated by Pastor Sam McClellan on January 15, 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Stone Funeral Home in Petoskey, Michigan. A visitation will start at 9:00 AM.

Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Inc.

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