Dave was born on December 1, 1953 in Traverse City, MI to parents Robert (Bob) Thomas Smith and Vivienne Fennell Jennings. The family moved several times throughout Dave’s childhood to follow the moon-shot locations due to his father being employed as an engineer at Boeing / NASA.

Dave enlisted into the U.S. Navy after high school and liked to say his “Senior Trip” was to Vietnam. Dave willingly served his country and returned home to attend Green River Community College in WA where he got a degree in auto mechanics. Dave married his forever bride, Cindy Robertson on September 4, 1988 and they shared 38 years together. Dave and Cindy have two children, Justine Robertson Smith and Shelby Robertson Smith.

Dave spent the majority of his working years as a builder, but he was known as a Jack of all trades. Dave and his wife Cindy established Arbor House Assisted Living in 1997 which they built, owned and operated for over 25 years.

Dave was kind, honest, sensitive, and had a great sense of humor. He grew up in the Hippie Era and happily never left. Friend, family or complete stranger, Dave would be the first person to lend a helping hand. He enjoyed boating, telling stories, and being with his girls.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife Cindy; two children, Justine (John Pirich) Smith and Shelby (Ben Page) Smith; two grandchildren, Lola Jane Pirich and John David Pirich; one sister, Robin Reisen and her 2 kids; and several extended family members including his in-laws Jim and Shirley Robertson with their 7 kids (and spouses); and 17 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Bob Smith, stepfather Ros Jennings, and his adored mother Vivienne Jennings.

Dave was hospitalized just prior to his highly anticipated 70th birthday party. We would like to invite you to the Eagles Club (14th Street) on Saturday, February 10th between 1-4pm to celebrate his belated birthday. Please wear anything tie-dyed in his honor. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Glen Lake Association (PO Box 551, Glen Arbor, MI 49636) to help preserve Dave’s favorite place.