Alan D. Smith

Alan D. Smith 
October 25, 1952 – February 14, 2018 

SOUTH BEND – Alan D. Smith, 65, of South Bend, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 in his home. Al was born on October 25, 1952 in Plymouth, Indiana to Robert D. and Margaret A. (Keyser) Smith. Growing up in South Bend, Al was a member of the John Adams High School class of 1971, excelling in track and cross country. On March 3, 1989, Al married Edmay C. DeBruyn in Fairfax, Virginia. They resided and raised their family in South Bend. Edmay survives along with daughter Eryn and son Christian Alan (Chelsea). Al was also the beloved Grandpa of Charlotte and Olivia, whom he adored. Also surviving Al are his father, Robert Smith of Mishawaka and six siblings, Julianne Fridley, Jim (Debbie) Smith, Susie (Craig) Scheu, Sally (Frank) Zappia, Nancy (Pat) Catanzarite, and Betsy (John) Barron. He was also Uncle Al to his many nieces and nephews, who always knew how much he loved them. He was so proud of each and every one. Al will also be missed by his mother-in-law, Edmay DeBruyn and brothers-in-law, Carl, William, and Ary DeBruyn. He leaves behind many dear cousins and life-long friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margie Smith, brother-in-law Gary Fridley, and infant daughter Emily Margaret. Besides his family and friends, Al had many great loves. He was a downhill and cross-country skier, and he was an experienced cyclist – loving to ride for miles on his favorite bike, Whitey. He was a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan and loved every minute of their 2016 Championship season. An avid IU fan, Al loved Hoosier basketball and football. He was also a huge fan of the Notre Dame Men’s Basketball team, and Coach Muffet McGraw and the Notre Dame Women’s Basketball team. He missed only one Indianapolis 500 in over 40 years. Al and Edmay loved to travel, across the U.S. and Europe, spending time with family and friends, enjoying numerous ball games, gatherings, and special events. Among Al’s many accomplishments was earning his college degree from Indiana University at age 56. Working full-time and raising a family, he was determined to graduate and wouldn’t give up until he did. Al retired on December 1, 2017 after 25 years at the University of Notre Dame, where he worked for the athletic department. Funeral services for Alan D. Smith will be 2:00 PM Monday, February 19, 2018 at Palmer Funeral Home River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawaka Ave., South Bend, IN 46615. Friends may gather with the family on Sunday, February 18, 2018 from 1:00 PM till 6:00 PM at the funeral home, and one hour prior to services on Monday. Memorial contributions may be given to the Center for Hospice Care (Hospice Foundation), 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Palmer Funeral Home River Park is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. 

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