Abner Smith

Abner Smith, 83 of Wolverine, passed away at home on Wednesday, September 2, 2015 surrounded by his family. Born in Flint on May 24, 1932, Abner was the son of Stanley and Lucy (Church) Smith.

He moved to Wolverine when he was 17 years old and on April 4, 1950 he married Gwendolyn A. Leese in Cheboygan.

In 1955 Abner went to work at Standard Products in Gaylord where he worked first in assembly, and later as a millwright and a boiler operator. He retired in 1992. Abner attended Sturgeon Valley Fellowship Free Methodist Church in Wolverine. An avid golfer, he especially enjoyed the friendships of his golf buddies. He also enjoyed playing horseshoes, cards and bingo as well as trips to area casinos.

He is survived by Gwen, his wife of 65 years; his children, Louis (Kathryn) Smith of Wolverine, Gary (Patricia) Smith of Wolverine, Mark (Helen) Smith of Harbor Springs, Jenny (Randy) Fitzpatrick of St. Johns, Sandra (Cliff) Smith of Harbor Springs and Albert (Dawn) Smith of Garden City; 15 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; a brother, William (Wendy) Smith of Troy and several nieces and nephews. Abner was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers and 2 sisters.

A celebration of his life will be held beginning at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at Silver Lake Cemetery in Wolverine followed immediately by a luncheon.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Hospice of the Straits. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com