David Smith

David P. Smith - Age 82, was born on June 29, 1942, to Harvey and Eleanor (Strick) Smith. A 1960 graduate of Kaukauna High School, he was affectionately known by many as "Popeye." Dave passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024, with his family by his side. Dave married the love of his life, Marianne (Acker) Smith, on Aug. 31, 1966. They shared 58 wonderful years together before his passing. Dave is survived by his children: Aimee (Troy) Johnson of Kimberly, and their children: Kian Johnson (special friend Brenda) of Hartford, Alek Johnson (fiancé Amber Chevalier) and their children: Maverick and Kehlani; Rebecca (Mark) Vande Hey of Kaukauna, and their children: McKenna Vande Hey of Great Bend, Kan. and David Vande Hey of Kaukauna; Steve’s daughters: Samantha (Jacob) Waldschmidt of Sherwood, and their daughter: Oliva, and Brianna (Mason) Guild of Green Bay; and his daughter-in-law: Mary Bloy-Smith of Kaukauna, and her children: Nicole (Dan) Wilk, and their children: Kylie and Colton of Gray's Lake, Ill., and Ashley (Adam) Linsmeyer, along with their children: Brynn, Gemma, Rylie, and Nolan (Mondovi). He is also survived by close family friend: Janet Pogrant; Goddaughters: Polly Hietpas and Maria Braun; his special cousin: John (Joyce) Smith and his puppy: Lucy. Dave's siblings include Dan (Lyn) Smith, Deb (Bob) Kiley, Diane (Mike) Siebold, and Doug (Mary Lee) Smith. He is further survived by his sister- and brothers-in-law: William (Sandy) Acker, Louise (Don) Van Hammond, Sue (Ted) Van Dyke, Jean (Rita) Acker-Halbur, George (Victoria) Acker, Sarah (Todd) Wittman, Polly (Marv) Hietpas, Tony (Rueben) Acker, along with many loving nieces, nephews and other family members. Dave was preceded in death by his son: Steve Smith; parents: Harvey and Eleanor Smith; parents-in-law: George and Lois Acker; Goddaughter: Paula Smith; and great-grandson: Jace Linsmeyer. Dave was passionate about the outdoors, enjoying hunting, fishing, and camping with family and friends. He found joy in a good card game, an old-fashioned cocktail, and a roaring campfire. A dedicated volunteer, Dave supported activities for his children, worked with Walleyes for Tomorrow, and contributed to the WIR Race Track. He was also an active member of the Ghost Rods car club in Kaukauna. Dave spent the majority of his career at Gustman’s of Kaukauna, where he worked for 40 years, contributing to the community and making lasting connections. A Mass of Christian Burial for Dave was held on Monday, Jan. 6, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, 411 Vandenbroek St., Little Chute. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com. The Smith family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to St. Elizabeth Hospital, St. Paul Elder Services, and Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care provided to Dave over the past several years.

VERKUILEN-VAN DEURZEN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 101 Canal Street, Little Chute, WI 54140, (920) 788-3321, www.verkuilenfh.com