Patrick J. Smith

SMITH, Patrick J.
Of Mattawan Patrick Joseph Smith was called home by his Lord on October 27, 2011 after a brief battle with cancer. Pat was born on January 9, 1951 in Escanaba, Michigan to Francis and Louise B. Smith. Pat is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Hackenberg and children, Matthew Lisa Smith, Lindsey Michael DeGraaf, Amy Kevin Gratwick and grandchildren, Abby, Leah, and Katy Smith and Reed DeGraaf. Also surviving are brothers Michael Barbara Smith, Dave Jan Smith, and sisters Kathy Jeff Hoover, Jan Brian LaFray, Kris Smith and several nephews and nieces. Pat was preceded in death by his parents, an older brother, Bob Smith, a niece Shana Paris, a nephew Mike Smith, a mother-in-law, Dorothy Hackenberg, and a brother-in-law Gary Hackenberg. Pat graduated from Hemlock High School in Hemlock, Michigan in 1969 where he starred in football. He served 4 ½ years in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise during the Vietnam War. After service to his country he returned to Western Michigan University to complete a teaching degree in Physical Education and Earth Science. He first started teaching and coaching at Climax-Scotts High School in 1977, then worked for the United States Postal Service before returning to teaching and coaching at Decatur Jr./Sr. High School. Pat taught many subjects over the next several years and coached a variety of sports, but football was his true love. Pat, also known as P.J., retired from Decatur Public Schools in 2003. In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing and hunting with his family and dear friends. Pat loved to travel and see the country. He traveled whenever he could and was lucky enough to work delivering vehicles all over the United States. Pat was a dedicated, devoted, giving and loving Husband, Father and Grandfather, who was equally adored by his family. The family would like to thank the Oncology staff at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Dr. Wendling and Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan for their compassionate care during his illness. Visitation will be on Friday, November 4th from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 5th 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 721 Pine St. in Paw Paw with Pastor Ron Moritz officiating. Private family inurnment at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to a favorite charity or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.