Joseph Smith

Joseph Dwight Smith, 74, of Charlevoix, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at his home.  He was born on June 23, 1945 in Charlevoix, MI the son of Joseph and Wilma (Bellinger) Smith.

Joe graduated from Charlevoix High School and went on to graduate with his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University.  He followed in his father’s footsteps and served as a police officer for both Ingham and Grand Traverse Counties.  Following a 32-year career, Joe retired his badge as the Undersheriff of Grand Traverse County.  Joe was also recognized as an excellent marksman by the FBI.

Joe always kept busy.  He has spent the last 9 years spending his winters in Florida.  He loved to travel; some of his favorite places were Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Yellowstone National Park, and Yosemite National Park among many others.  He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and golfing.

He is survived by his lifetime partner, Jan Greene of Charlevoix; three children, Jody (Stephanie) Dodson, and their mother, Patricia (Larry) Dodson, Charlie Smith of Kalkaska, Sarah Rousseau of Kalkaska, and their mother Debra Smith; a sister, Barbara King of Kalkaska; and three grandchildren, Ellacyn Rahn, Keith Craig, and Mira Wheatley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Wilma Smith, and a brother, Dwight Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Gift Processing, 1702 East Highland Ave., Suite 400 Phoenix, AZ 85016 or Munson Home Health, 1105 Sixth St., Traverse City, MI 49684

There are no services planned at this time.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com