Stephen Smith

Stephen Schaefer Smith, 77, of Charlevoix, MI, passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 surrounded by his family. He was born on February 18, 1947, in Chicago, the son of Verne R. and Mary Jane (Schaefer) Smith.

Steve graduated from Notre Dame High School in Niles, IL, and went on to attend Southern Illinois University for his undergrad before ultimately obtaining a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Lewis University. He put his knowledge of business to good use as a top salesman in the electronics division of 3M. He worked for 43 years with the company in the Chicago area before retiring in 2010. Steve spent his summers at the family cottage on Lake Charlevoix from the time he was a baby. In 2010, he and his wife bought a home just down the road from the cottage, and have called it home since. He loved nothing more than to be on the shores of Lake Charlevoix overlooking the water. They had also enjoyed spending their winters in Marco Island, FL, since 2012. 

Steve’s greatest joys in life were his children, and he did everything in his capacity to help them succeed. He took great pride in their sports ambitions; he coached his son Todd’s basketball team for many years, and cherished the time spent with his daughters, Colleen and Christine, traveling to their swim meets. He was a big fan of collegiate sports, particularly basketball, and always rooted for Michigan State, Kansas, and NC State. Each year, he looked forward to the annual family trip to Las Vegas during March Madness. Steve took great pride in staying active and being physically healthy, and rarely could be found sitting still. In his retirement, he also enjoyed day trading stocks from the comfort of home. 

On September 18, 1971, in Ridgway, IL, Steve married Marie (Scherrer) Smith, who survives. Also surviving are his two daughters, Colleen Smith of Westmont, IL, and Christine Smith of Winnetka, IL; his beloved dogs, Abby and Cooper; his granddog, Reuben; and many dear relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Todd Smith; his brother, Verne R. Smith Jr; his sister, Annabel LaPlante; and several dogs that have passed over the years. 

A memorial mass is being planned for June 28, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlevoix. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1003 Bridge St., Charlevoix, MI 49720. 

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