Donald D. Smeltzer

Passed away Saturday evening, November 5, 2022. Don was born December 31, 1935 in Kalamazoo the son of Scott and Dorothy (Exstance) Smeltzer. Don attended Comstock Public Schools graduating in 1954, after spending a short time at Western Michigan University he began his long career working at James River and Brown Company to name a few before settling at LSI Kala now known as Schawk ending his lithographer career as a sales consultant for many well known brands such as Hershey, Jimmy Dean, and his favorite Ben and Jerry’s.  Although he suffered many losses in his life his true love was always there for him…sports.  He spent many year bowling, playing softball, playing basketball, and of course playing golf.  However, you could truly see him smile while watching his grandchildren play.  If they did not have an activity he could be found supporting his Comstock Colts all year round.  He did not hang up his softball glove until well into his seventies still playing on teams that would travel all over the nation.  He was golfing until his mid eighties and was able to get out and see one last high school football game this fall cheering the whole time.

Many people remember that he was always smiling and ready to help whether that was picking up the neighbors leaves or making sure to drop off the newspaper almost daily for those that needed it.  He loved to travel with the many friends he had made over the years, and could be found aboard cruise ships or gambling out west.

Don is survived by his sons, Brian (Eileen) Smeltzer, Nathan (Lindsay) Smeltzer; 7 grandchildren, Chad (Alison) Smeltzer, Shaun Smeltzer, Adam Barber, Ethan Barber, Benjamin Smeltzer, Caden Smeltzer,  Emmett Smeltzer; 2 great-grandchildren, Parker Smeltzer, Ava Smeltzer; his brother, Scott (Gloria) Smeltzer; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Perri Barber; brothers and sisters, Lyle, Robert, Charles, Ruth, Beverly, Shirley and Sandra.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or services. Private family interment will be at a later date. To view Don’s personalized webpage, please visit https://www.langelands.com