Frederick A. Smith

How do you write an obituary for an extraordinary man? Frederick Allen Smith, Jr. made a mark on this earth. Born July 25, 1960, he departed us unexpectedly on July 12, 2024. Fred was a person who experienced and had talent in so many things. He was an artist at heart which was apparent if you saw his water features, rock carvings, and wood sculptures. He has played lacrosse, danced on stage, sang in a choir, scuba dived, snow skied, mined gems, flew airplanes, and raised a ton load of koi fish successfully. Fred was a true friend to the animals. Whether it was stopping on the side of the road to save a turtle or be a foster parent to wayward lizards assisting the herpetological society of San Diego, he had an understanding for animals (sometimes even more than humans). He sailed the world as a young man in a US Navy stint. He had many career paths which included plumbing, deep water fishing, underground engineering, tree servicing, lifeguard instructor, truck driver, EMT, paramedic, and registered nurse.

He adored his wife Vicki of 32 years, and his daughter, Laurin. Despite a rough exterior, Fred was honest, giving, caring, compassionate, and so intelligent. He loved the church. He loved to help in any way that he could which made him a great nurse. He would go out of his way to assist you even if he did not know you.

He leaves behind his mother, Patricia Smith, and his sisters, Sherry (Mitch) Soule, Sandy Hutt, Karen (Dave) Wendler; and close friend, Mark Laurin.

A Celebration of Fred’s Life will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Church of the Living Word, 6099 Court St. Rd, Syr. starting at 3:30pm. Remarks and remembrances will begin at 5pm with reception to follow. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at Pine Plains Cemetery, Clay at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Fred's name to Church of the Living Word.

To share memories or words of condolence with Fred's family, please visit the guestbook below.