Roger Allen Smith, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on September 20, 2024, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born on July 26, 1945, in Allegan, Michigan, to his late parents Leonard and Helen (Heath) Smith.
Roger’s life journey was marked by his unwavering intelligence, tireless work ethic, and immeasurable love for his family and friends. After graduating from Allegan High School, Roger’s ambitious nature led him to establish R. Smith and Sons Inc., which he adeptly managed and owned for over 55 years and also established RA Equipment in 2003, which he successfully ran with his family. A consummate family man, he was married on April 23, 1966, to his life’s love, Janet (Merchant) Smith, by Pastor Mayhew. Together, they created a beautiful life, shared 58 faithful years, and were blessed with a loving family that continued to grow across generations. A true outdoorsman, Roger found tranquility and joy in the wonders of nature. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply taking a walk-through God’s Country, he cherished the serenity of the great outdoors. Memories abound of him spending quality time in his Pole Barn tinkering with cars, conversing and sharing tales with friends old and new. Roger’s love for the thrill of the auction was unparalleled-from Florida to Michigan; he was a familiar face at events, always in search of the next great find for heavy equipment. He strongly supported his faith in God at the Merson Church, and his commitment to supporting the local Allegan County Fair and the 4H community demonstrated his dedication to fostering growth and opportunities for the youth.
Roger Allen Smith’s legacy is one of boundless adventure, intellect, and benevolent wisdom. As we bid farewell to a man whose presence enriched the lives of so many, we take solace in knowing that his spirited tales and sage advice will continue to echo through the generations.
Roger is survived by his wife Janet (Merchant) Smith; children Trent (Tammy) Smith, and Trevor (Natalie) Smith; siblings Barbara Taylor, Betty Smith, Denise (Ron) Medemar, Julie (Jeff) Fell, Joel Merchant and, Daughter in-law, Patti (Doug) Schmidt; grandchildren Matthew (Brooke), Mallory (Rich), Adam, Steven, Justin, Zakary Roger, Erin (Miles), Damenick, Isabel, Connor, Gabe, Mitchell, Michael, Megan and Kelley; greatgrandchildren Graham, Grace, Parker, Oliver, Wrenlee, Avery, Aspen, and Keeley.
Preceded in death is his son Troy Smith (1990); parents Leonard and Helen (Heath) Smith; in-laws Virgil and Esther Merchant; brother and sister in laws Betty Merchant, Melvin Taylor and daughter in-law, Peggy Milbocker.
There will be a visitation this Friday, September 27th, 2024, from 5:00pm – 8:00pm at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel located at 528 Trowbridge Street, Allegan, MI 49010.
Rogers Funeral service will be on Saturday September 28th, 2024, starting at 11:00am with an hour visitation beforehand in Merson Church located at 3313 102nd Avenue, Gobles, MI 49055.
Burial to follow at Lindsley Cemetery, and a luncheon after to the Silo located at 1071 32nd.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to any of the following: Merson Church 3313 102nd Avenue, Gobles, MI 49055, Wings Home 330 Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010, and Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center 404 Sherman Street, Allegan, MI 49010.
