Obituary of Mike Smith, Sr.

Mike Smith, Sr., age 67, of Shorewood, IL passed away Thursday, May 12, 2022 at Silver Cross Hospital, New Lenox, IL.  He was born March 2, 1955 in Joliet, IL to Nelda (Gravitt) and the late Lavon “Cy” Smith.

Survived by his beloved wife, Judy Smith; loving children, Zachary (Jacklyn) Ficarella, Michael (Jessica) Smith, Jr., Jordan Smith, Kelly (Don) Voitik, and Chris Sossong; adoring grandchildren, Colin Ficarella, Makenlee “June”, and Montgomery Smith, Donnie and Grace Voitik; dear mother, Nelda Smith; loving sister, Nelda “Kay” (Jim) Elmore; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Mike was a lifelong resident of the Joliet area.  He owned and operated Cy’s Heating and Cooling in Joliet.  He enjoyed riding his Harley though Starved Rock; amongst many other spontaneous adventures with his wife Judy.  He raced go-carts and midget cars at the Grundy County Speedway for many years.  He had an appreciation for the chase of the race and the countless friends he made along the way.  A Bob Seger song and being with his family was his idea of the perfect day. 

He had an intentional love for those who were important to him.  His connection to his grandchildren was unmatched and their lives are now forever changed.

His family was inspired by him to do things “his way” and vows to continue to do so in his absence.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Heart Association, 300 S. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606.

A Memorial Gathering for Mike Smith, Sr., will be Tuesday, May 17, 2022, 2:00-5:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.), Joliet, IL.  As it was his wish, cremation rites have been accorded.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.