Stuart C. "Stu" Smith's Obituary
It is with saddened hearts that we announce the death of Stuart Coupland Smith. After 97 beautiful years on this earth, he went home to his Heavenly Father on March 16, 2024. Stuart was born in Flint, MI on March 3, 1927, to Gordon and Leona Smith. He was a graduate of Arthur Hill High School in Saginaw, MI. Stuart is preceded in death by his late wife, Jean Margaret Fry of Flint, MI; their newborn daughter, Mary Margaret; son, David Curtis; and son-in-law, Ronald Eurick.
Stuart is survived by his three daughters, Cheryle A. Eurick of Saginaw, Jeannette R. Novak/Boone (Mike) of Grand Rapids and Susan C. Leppien (Thomas) of Grand Haven. Five grandchildren, Stephanie Novak Eilers (Josh), Stephen Novak (Karissa), Dr. Brittley Leppien Pyykkonen (Devon), Lindi and Alyssa Leppien. Two great grandchildren, Rosaleigh Novak and Cameron Eilers. Along with his “adoptive” son, Dr. Gardy Marius whom he had met while on a medical mission trip in Haiti back in 1993 and had put through medical school.
Stuart was a WWII Navy veteran serving as a Surgical Corpman, which led him in the direction of Anesthesia. He practiced anesthesia for over 40 years as a CRNA and was head of the department of anesthesia at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Saginaw when he retired. After retirement, Stuart continued to pursue his faith by being an active member and leader of the Episcopal Church. He found joy in spending time with his family and throughout the years made many memories boating and camping.
Stu was known for the stories he told of all he had experienced during his 97 years of life. He was full of wisdom and loved to share his life with others. Most recently, you could find him cruising down the sidewalks of Grand Haven on his bright blue scooter. He was loved immensely and will be terribly missed. The visitation will be on Friday, March 22, 2024, from 4-7:00PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. A Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 1200 Seminole Rd., Muskegon, MI 49441 at 1:00 PM with visitation at 12:00 PM. Donations may be directed to St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Stuart?
What’s a lesson you learned from Stuart?
Share a story where Stuart's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Stuart you’ll never forget.
How did Stuart make you smile?
