David Brian Smith
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” (Mahatma Gandhi)
David Brian Smith, of Rockford, MI, formerly of Holt, MI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday, February 15th, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was 74 years old.
David was a proud veteran of the US Air Force, serving from 1969 to 1975. He met the love of his life, Wang Yien Shine, while stationed in Taiwan. They married on November 7, 1970, celebrating their 54th wedding anniversary.
After his honorable discharge from the Air Force, David and Yien (known stateside as Lisa) moved to Michigan, where they raised their family. David worked for General Motors at the Fisher Body Plant until his retirement in 2009 after 31 years of service.
In addition to his beloved wife Lisa, he is survived by his children, Melinda (Gary) Goolsby, Scott (Melinda) Smith, and Pamela (Rodney) Colon; his grandchildren, Alexander, Christopher, Isabella, Ethan, and Evangeline; and his brothers, Randy (Natalie) Smith, Roger (Cheryl) Smith, and Craig (Colleen) Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Barbara, and his sister Cindy Masalkoski.
David was a loving, supportive father and husband and a true best friend; nothing could match the love he felt for his family. He would always sing praises for his family especially his grandchildren. There wasn’t anyone within ear shot that didn’t know about his 5 grandchildren – he was a very proud Papa. But I’ll tell you what, his love of food came in a darn close second. He was possibly the most enthusiastic consumer of good home-cooking to walk this earth, with a particular fondness for desserts. David was also a passionate outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, watching wildlife, and just delighting in the beauty of nature. In quiet moments, David enjoyed reading (Zane Grey being a particular favorite), watching western movies, binge-watching TV shows with Lisa, and savoring the simple pleasure of a good hot cup of coffee.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel, 2121 North Cedar Street, Holt, MI. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Lansing. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, February 23rd, from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. and on Monday, February 24th prior to funeral services from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
4 Messages to “David Brian Smith”
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Robert Girvin
February 18, 2025 at 2:56 pmDave was a very sweet man with the biggest sweet tooth ever. He could devour a giant apple fritter from Pierson’s and still have room for Rice Krispy squares melted over the fire pit. He loved that fire pit and the surrounding woods where he got his first turkey. What joy!
We loved our time with Dave and are so happy we got to spend Christmas Day with him and Lisa.
RIP
Bob and Carol Girvin
Emily Jo Ziemba
February 20, 2025 at 3:08 pmDave was about the kindest soul you would ever hope to meet. He was the very best kind of neighbor, and I will dearly miss seeing him wave from his riding mower and our driveway chats. Thank you for sharing your joy for life with us, Dave!
Kai-An Lee
February 20, 2025 at 7:12 pmMy uncle only changed his position to protect his beloved family. He was upright and kind throughout his life, and set the best example of a good father, a good husband, and a good grandfather.He was wonduful uncle. The people we love never go away for they live in our hearts. His/her memory will reside forever in my/our heart. I miss him forever
Amber Jay
February 26, 2025 at 8:13 pmDave, it was wonderful to meet you and get to know you and Lisa when you were in Houston. Your daughter, Pam, is a wonderful person and friend- and when I met you and Lisa, I can see why. The bond between daughters and fathers is so special. Rest in peace, Mr. Smith.