Brian Benjamin Smith, age 80, died unexpectedly at his home on Sugar Island in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, on November 27, 2024. He was born on March 14, 1944, in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Benjamin F. and Marion (Hagens) Smith.
Brian grew up in Grand Rapids, graduated from Ottawa Hills High School, and attended Grand Rapids Junior College. After his honorable discharge with the United States Army Reserve and several early careers, Brian excelled as the manager of the telephone systems department at Blodgett Memorial Hospital and later at Spectrum Health, both in Grand Rapids. In adulthood, Brian lived mostly on the water, including the Thorn Apple River, and on the St. Mary’s River. He spent many family vacations in the Florida Keys. Brian was passionate all his life about boats, having had several small boats and a sailboat.
Brian was active with the Sugar Island Lions Club and with many charitable causes in Sault Ste. Marie.
Brian is survived by his sister, Diana (Udo) Reif; nephews, Bradley J. Bonfiglio of Rockwall, Texas, and Mark B. Bonfiglio of St. Petersburg, Florida; his beloved cat, Mr. Black; and many wonderful friends in Sault Ste. Marie.
Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Marion.
Per Brian’s wishes, there will be no services.
Donations may be made, if desired, to the Best of Friends Humane Society, 149 E. 7 Mile Rd, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
