Theodore "Ted" Smith

Theodore R. "Ted" Smith was born June 22, 1931 in Grand Rapids Michigan, the youngest child of Theodore R. and Petronella (Visser) Smith Sr. Growing up on the city’s West Side, Ted and his sisters, Eleanor and Marge, attended Harrison Park Elementary School, and he graduated from Union High School in 1949.

Already in high school, Ted met the young woman he would marry, Edna M. Wright. Truth be told, it was Ted’s beautiful wavy hair that she first fell for, but their love for each other was solidified over a four- year dating relationship. They were married on October 20, 1950 at Second Congregational Church and began their life together. For the first 28 years of marriage, they lived on 7th Street NW, then Lake Michigan Drive NW for 8 years, Country Green Condominiums for 8 years and finally Maynard Avenue the past 12 years. Their lives were greatly enriched by their dear children: Pam, Sandy, Faith, Randy and Todd.

Ted was a hard-working man who provided for his family in a way that came naturally to him. He knew cars and he knew people. He tinkered with cars enough to know their workings, and he valued his customers as evidenced by the way he treated them. In return, people trusted Ted and he didn’t disappoint them. He sold used cars, first at Anderson Auto Sales, then Nischan-Spaulding, Fuller Serra Chevrolet and later C. Bell Chevrolet until he went out on his own. Over 57 years in sales, Ted developed repeat business so that some customers even called him at home when they were ready to buy another car.

For recreation, Ted and his family spent their vacations at White Fish Lake, Traverse City, Silver Beach and Grand Haven. He bowled on several leagues, but nothing beat golf. He was an avid player and most often could be found on the links at Lincoln Country Club.

In addition to his skills and interests, Ted’s character was predominantly shaped by his faith. As a servant of the Lord and a mentor to many, his life was not about him but rather what he could do for others. Fellow members of Broadway Avenue and Westview Christian Reformed Churches experienced his generosity of time and spirit. Ted was head of the ushers for the past 40 years, and was so established in that role that he was known as "Mr. Westview." He greeted everyone prior to each Sunday service, and having the gift of gab, Ted could strike up a conversation with anyone. In a matter of minutes, a stranger became a friend.

Ted suffered a stroke on Friday March 1 and was taken to Spectrum Health Care, where his family remained at his side until he died on Wednesday afternoon, March 6, 2013 at 5:09 PM. Ted was the most loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather as well as a friend to everyone he met. His dedication to family and his service to others arose out of Ted’s deep devotion to his Lord and Savior.

Mr. Theodore R. “Ted” Smith, aged 81 of Grand Rapids, Michigan is survived by his wife of 61 years, Edna Smith; his children, Pam and John Wilson, Sandy and Wayne Breuker, Faith and George Powell, Randy and Deb Smith, Todd and Zelpha Smith; his grandchildren, Lacey (Dan) Sheffer, Hope (Allan) Margherio, Ted Bufkin IV, Jamie (Darren) Michmerhuizen, Jason (Mindy) Smith, Taryn (Nathan) Lukasik, Katherine Smith, Micah (Karey) Smith, Zac Smith (fiancée Alix), Kelsey Smith, Kaleigh Smith; 9 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews and many friends. “Mr Westview”, Ted was a member of Westview Christian Reformed Church, 2929 Leonard St. NW, where the service to celebrate his life will be held on Monday, March 11, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held at the church on Sunday from 12:00 noon – 5:00 PM and again on Monday from 10:00 AM until the service begins. In lieu of flowers, please consider your contributions in Ted’s memory to Westview Church or Matthew’s House. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. To leave your own memory of Ted, and to sign his guest book, visit his web page at www.lifestorynet.com