Duane D. Smith

Duane Dale Smith, 87 of Johannesburg, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday November 13, 2022.

Duane was born August 27, 1935, in Montmorency County and raised on the Smith family farm in Johannesburg. Like his father and all his brothers, Duane joined a branch of the armed forces. He proudly served in the Navy as a mechanic on aircraft carriers from 1956 through 1960; Duane came to know Jesus while in the service.

After returning home he met the love of his life, Naomi Ruth Thomas in 1962. They married on October 12, 1963, and together raised four children.

After 18 years of driving bus Duane retired in 1997 from Johannesburg Lewiston School System. He volunteered throughout his life in various ways, helping others and leading people to Christ was his ultimate joy. He loved attending church, reading his bible, spending time with his wife and entire family. Hunting, fishing, baseball and telling stories of the past were some of his favorite things. Duane was a deeply devoted, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and met him.

Duane is survived by his wife, Naomi (Thomas) Smith, together they had four children; Peggy (Smith) Casagrande, Michael Smith (Kathie), Philip Smith and Marlene (Smith) Hopp (Todd). Also surviving are grandchildren, Derek Smith (Arica), Allyson (Smith) Brink (Phil), Trevor Smith (Mikayla), Jacob Smith, Mandy Hopp, and Ashley Casagrande; great-grandchildren, Bronson Smith, Layla Brink, and Brady Smith; his youngest brother, Arthur Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

Duane is preceded in death by his parents, Frank, and Bessie (Proper) Smith;

brothers, James, William, Junior, Archie, Frank, Benjamin, Keith, Herbert; and his sisters, Betty, Garnet, Irene, and Lola. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Johannesburg Christian Church, P.O. BOX 75 Johannesburg, MI 49751 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Charlton Township Fire Hall 10775 Rowan Avenue. Johannesburg, MI 49751 starting at 11:30 AM Saturday, November 26, 2022. Food and beverages will be provided. Please join the family and share memories of Duane’s life!

Please share your memories and personal messages with Duane’s family on his guestbook, below.