Obituary of William Joseph Smith

William Joseph Smith, age 70 passed away peacefully on October 10th. Survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Mary; brother, Lawrence Smith; sisters, Kathleen LeMay, Eileen Smith Pettersen, Mary Lou Gjeski (Gordy), Patricia Stainbrook (Mike); and preceded in death by his parents, Alvin (Bud) Smith and Mary June Smith and sister, Mary Ann Smith. William was a graduate of Cathedral High School in Duluth and worked for several local businesses including Frazer Shipyard and Lloyd Currie & Sons. After moving to the Minneapolis area in 1987, William spent several years as a sign painter for Naegle Outdoor and later as a journeyman painter for various companies. He valued his daily social time at the gym and the many friendships he made there. His love of ships brought forward the opportunity to volunteer annually working on the SS Meteor whaleback ship in Superior, WI.  He enjoyed many outdoor activities such as riding his bike around the Coon Rapids Dam trails, downhill skiing and golf. He will be fondly remembered for his love of his kitties, and his interest in shipwrecks, history, travel and cars.  His family would like to thank the caring angels that looked after him at the J.A. Wedum Residential Hospice. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, October 22 at 12:00 with visitation one hour prior  at the Cremation Society of MN, 7835 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Park AND on Wednesday, October 23 at 10:00 with visitation one hour prior at the Cremation Society of MN, 4100 Grand Ave., Duluth MN.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society.