Clayton/Lakeville: Charles Dennis Smith passed peacefully on July 23, 2018 at age 74, surrounded in love by his family. Predeceased by his parents C. Oliver and Vivian (Green) Smith. Survived by his loving wife of 50 years Judith (Miller) Smith and son Brian (and wife Jennifer) Smith of Colorado; his two grandchildren, Colden and Nia Smith; sisters, Jan (and husband Tom) Wolski of Cambridge, NY and Heather (and husband Steve) Bailey of Vermont, and many nieces and nephews.
Dennis retired after a long career at Kraft Foods. He enjoyed the next chapter watching sunsets and ships with Judy from their home in Clayton, boating and fishing the St. Lawrence and baiting hooks for his grandchildren. When not puttering, Dennis could be found in the woods, immersed in the nature and wild he was deeply connected to. September was a time to make an annual trip to Colorado to hunt elk with his son, nephew Greg, and brother in-law Jim Johnston. This time in the Rocky Mountains was special beyond measure for father and son. A defining part of his life, hunting created lifelong friendships, and Dennis shared abundance from his success with family and friends.
Snow skiing was also a big part of his life. He and Judy were familiar faces at Swain for more than three decades and adored skiing Arapahoe Basin and Keystone in Colorado with their grandchildren who were his pride and joy.
Denny’s practicality and practical jokes will be missed as much as his presence at family gatherings and in the day to day, for he was always someone to lend a strong hand, and his barbecued chicken was a mainstay at summer gatherings.
As a grandfather, he introduced the funny pages and dominoes, made mischief and imparted patience and simple joy through fishing, playing cards, and observing the wonders of nature together. He will be missed.
Family and friends may call on Friday, August 3rd, from 4-7pm at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home Inc., 21 Big Tree Street, Rte 15 & 20A, Livonia, NY where services will be held on Saturday, August 4th, at 11am. Memorial contributions may be made in Dennis’ memory to Livonia Ambulance, PO Box 8, Livonia, NY 14487. The family would be so grateful if you shared stories and memories, or offered condolences, by visiting: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com