Stephen Murray Smith
September 13, 1970 - August 13, 2009

From an early age, Stephen Smith loved being out on the open water with the sounds of the lapping water as his constant companion. He was a man with a strong work ethic and a tender heart, caring for both the people and animals that were a big part of his life. Although Steve was challenged by adversity throughout his life, he always radiated a fun-loving spirit and warm demeanor that others wanted to be around.

The 1970s were a time in which America was struggling to find its way. Civil Rights remained a point of struggle within the social and political movements, Watergate shook our nation to its core, and tensions between the United States and Russia continued. For Jeff and Susan (Murray) Smith, of Muskegon, Michigan, this was a time of celebration as they were blessed with the birth of their son, Stephen Murray, on September 13, 1970. When Steve was three-and-a-half, he was joined by younger brother Adam who rounded out the Smith family. Steve enjoyed a normal childhood and was raised in Norton Shores and attended Mona Shores schools.

During his younger years, there were certain character qualities and interests that emerged in Steve that would shadow him throughout his entire lifetime. He was a sensitive guy with a big heart, and he established a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility, always taking it upon himself to keep the family car washed. Steve was actively involved in numerous activities too including the Boy Scouts and Indian Guides, and he played little league baseball as well. He also played hockey beginning in the Pee Wee leagues and continuing into the older leagues within his community since when he was in high school, hockey was not an organized sport within the school system. Steve seemed to enjoy all sports whether he was watching or playing. It was also during his formative years that Steve developed a passion for boating and being on the water.

Life turned in a new direction for Steve when his parents separated when he was just ten years old. This was a difficult transition for him. He lived with his mother while his father remained an active part of Steves life. While Steve was a teen-ager, his father remarried, and he gained a brother Scott and a sister Cheryl - both with whom he developed a good relationship.

After graduating from Mona Shores High School, Steve attended classes at Muskegon Community College for two years. Following his time in school, Steve began his career in the boating industry when he worked for Harbour Towne Yacht Club and also at Great Lakes Marina on Muskegon Lake. He loved his work which included moving boats around and putting them in and out of the water. After a time, Steves love for the water called him to move to Florida where he initially settled in Panama City Beach and worked with some of his high school buddies. He then moved to Sarasota where he worked for a local marina trailering boats from city to city, and also taking customers out on sea trials with their new boats. At times, Steve worked waiting tables and for the Eager Beaver Car Wash, a large chain of car washes in Florida.

While in Florida, Steve enjoyed numerous things aside from work. He continued to be a big sports fan, especially of both University of Michigan and Florida State football. He also satiated his love for animals through the companionship of Sasha, a special shih tzu who held a dear place in Steves heart. It was also during this time that Steve developed what was the most serious relationship of his life with a young girl named Jessie Nolan for several years. Steve became close to her family during that time and enjoyed spending time fishing and socializing with them. Ultimately, Steves relationship with Jessie ended though they continued to remain friends.

Altogether, Steve lived in Florida for ten years until he and Sasha moved back to Muskegon in 2003. For a time, Steve lived with his mother and worked a few odd jobs, eventually moving out on his own.

Over the years, Steve had challenges with addictions to both drugs and alcohol, and also some unfortunate run-ins with the law. Steve was blessed with many people in his life who tried to reach out to him in an attempt to help him with his difficulties. While he was in Florida, Steve developed a close friendship with a retired priest named Father Kelly. Steve spent time helping Father Kelly with chores and odd jobs while Father Kelly worked with Steve in helping him overcome his challenges. Once Steve moved back to Muskegon, his difficulties just seemed to continued to follow him. His friends and family continued to rally around him. He also received significant help and support from the great people at the Muskegon Rescue Mission.

Stephen Smith was a man with a diverse palette of interests throughout his lifetime. He loved working with boats, cheering on his favorite football teams, and just hanging out with his dog Sasha. Steve was a loyal friend to many and he loved his family too. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Stephen M. Smith died Thursday, August 13, 2009 of a sudden brain aneurism. May the Lord bless and keep him, the Lord make his face shine unto him and be gracious unto him and give him peace. Steves family includes his father, Jeffrey (Susan) Smith of Muskegon; mother, Susan Newman of Muskegon; brothers, Adam (Regan) Smith of AZ, Scott (Kimberly) Ellis of Muskegon; sister, Cheryl Ellis of CO; nieces, Claire Smith, Paige Ellis; nephews, Nico Pierangeli, Samuel Smith. A Remembrance of Steves life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at Clock Chapel with Rev. Wally Coots officiating. There will be a reception following the service. Visit with Steves family and friends for one hour prior to the service at Clock Life Story Funeral Home Muskegon location Muskegon, MI. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com, where you can leave a favorite memory, sign the online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to the Muskegon Rescue Mission.

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