Christopher Smith

Chris Smith's journey was one of passion, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. A devoted husband, father, son, and friend, his kindness, sense of humor, and wisdom left an indelible mark on all who knew and loved him.

Chris’ story begins in the year 1979. The board game, Trivial Pursuit, was gaining in popularity, Michael Jackson had just released his Off the Wall album, and the Sony Walkman was a worldwide success! During a promising time in our nation’s history, Stanley and Debbie Smith welcomed home their newborn baby boy, Christopher, on September 5th. His birth brought them great joy.

Growing up, Chris’ natural ability to connect with others was noticeable at an early age. At the tender age of four, he told his mother that strangers were just friends he hadn’t met yet! His charming demeanor and positive outlook made him many friends at Calvary Lutheran. Aside from school, most of his childhood was spent outdoors. He enjoyed shooting cans with his bow, a Christmas gift from his Grandpa. They also spent time rifle shooting. Eventually, he joined Boy Scouts and learned many life skills which helped him succeed throughout life. Any amount of time he was in nature, his heart was content.

After graduating from Cornerstone Academy, Chris studied criminal justice with a focus on cybersecurity. Anything he approached, he paid attention to every detail. Known to read manuals cover to cover, he became an expert at anything in a short amount of time. During one of his first jobs with Sears, he learned the ins and outs of every department just by reading and doing his own research. He was a valuable asset as he could direct customers to any department. Later, he was hired as a contractor at Stryker. He excelled in this position, so much so, that when he received an offer from another company Stryker scrambled to make him an offer that he couldn’t refuse just to keep him in the company! Just last week, he celebrated his 13th anniversary with Stryker, a proud milestone in his career.

Not to be forgotten was the meeting of Danielle who would change the course of his life forever! They met the old-fashioned way, on AOL instant messenger! He liked her profile quote which read, “Life is great…without it, you’d be dead.” Chris was curious about her sense of humor and before long they were talking on the phone almost daily. With a common interest in horror movies and a unique sense of humor, they hit it off from the start! Her family was reluctant when they heard they met online, but once they met Chris, they fell in love with him, too! Chris and Danielle married and together raised three wonderful children: Garrett, Sydney, and Thorin.

As a dad, Chris was very involved with his kids. Even though he wasn’t much of a sports person at first, he was always supportive and encouraging in any sport they pursued. After a couple years of being a ‘Sports Dad’ he became a huge wrestling fan and loved watching Garrett and Sydney wrestle. He enjoyed working with the Portage Central Wrestling Boosters and the Van Buren Voyagers 4H Club. Anything that the kids tried, from football to volleyball to wrestling, he was there for it. His daughter, Sydney, had found a love for wrestling and in 2024 became the first female wrestler from Portage Central to attend and place at the state championship. He was exceptionally proud of his kids' accomplishments.

Whenever they were faced with challenges, Chris preferred to teach his kids what they needed to do rather than do it for them. His guidance was a huge asset in their lives as he approached things even-keeled and full of patience. Known to be able to de-escalate anyone when they were struggling, they came to him when they were frustrated or disappointed. Chris wanted nothing more than to celebrate their successes. He instilled in his kids the value of people and a sense of compassion for others. Chris and Danielle had built a beautiful life together and modeled for their children a genuine love for one another. As a family, they loved adventure and enjoyed many trips with the Van Buren Voyagers, including white water rafting, hiking, backpacking and kayaking, and canoe trips. They lived each moment to the fullest, and any conversation was sure to include laughter!

In addition to his work and family, Chris held many special interests. He never liked hunting, but did shoot a squirrel once and Danielle cooked it. They chose to never do that again! He had a passion for writing, especially short stories and horror. His strong interest in horror took him on several trips to conventions where he shared this interest with others. Chris was a regular at HearseFest each year in Fowlerville, Michigan. A loyal friend, he was always there for anyone in need and loved spending time gaming with his close friends. He loved the family’s pet cats. Everyone in the house had their own cat for a total of five! As for snacks, Chris favored chocolate-covered peanuts and Better Made Licorice. His favorite, however, was French fries. He used to joke that he would start a Food Network show just so he could travel around the world and rate fries! No matter what he set out to do, he always did it with optimism. Above all else, it was evident to all who knew him that he loved his family.

Sadly, he is gone too soon. His zest for life and his genuine concern for others will be his greatest legacies. Chris was a bright light and his deep connections with people were not only admirable, it was the core of who he was as a person. There is no doubt that he will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family and many special friends. May his loved ones always draw on his positive approach to living and may his memories be eternal.

Christopher Smith of Portage, age 45, died on February 15, 2025. He was preceded in death by his dad, Stanley Smith; and father-in-law, Robert Mifsud. Surviving are his wife, Danielle; children: Garrett, Sydney, and Thorin; mother and step-father, Debbie and Dennis Prunkard; and mother-in-law, Kimberly Mifsud.

Please join us at a Life Story Service on Sunday, February 23, at 1 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A luncheon will follow at the Paw Paw Conservation Club. Celebrate Chris’ life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Portage Central High School Wrestling Boosters or Van Buren Voyager’s 4H Club.