Dannie L. Smith

Dannie Smith was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin, and friend who brought laughter, love, and unforgettable memories to everyone around him.

Dannie shared a special love with his wife, Valerie (Hoover) Smith, and treasured his daughter, Melissa (Ty) Maurer, all of his grandchildren, and his beloved doggies. His family meant the world to him, and he had a special way of making the people he loved smile, even when they least expected it.

A hardworking machinist by trade, Dannie knew the importance of hard work, but he also knew how to enjoy life. He loved fishing, collecting knives, playing pool at the SM&SF Club, and spending time outdoors doing just about anything. Whether he was enjoying the fresh air, casting a fishing line, or shooting pool with friends,

Dannie loved keeping busy and making memories along the way. Some of his most unforgettable memories were made at the campground, where he kept his grandkids laughing with his silly antics. Whether he was eating minnows, worms, or just about anything in sight, he always found a way to make the kids giggle. Those moments were uniquely Dannie — a little goofy, a little crazy, and full of love. He had a gift for turning ordinary days into stories his family would laugh about for years to come.

Dannie had a personality that made him unforgettable. His humor, playful spirit, love of the outdoors, and ability to bring laughter into a room will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him. His grandchildren will always remember the funny things he did, the memories they shared, and the special kind of love that only their grandpa could give.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Valerie (Hoover) Smith; his daughter, Melissa (Ty) Maurer; his grandchildren, Johnathon Lewis, Stephanie Erickson, Stacy Lewis, Ashton Gore, and Jocelyn Gore; his many beloved great-grandchildren; his loving cousin, Lorie Rosentreter; and his many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind countless cherished memories with family and friends who were blessed to know and love him.

Dannie was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Barb and Leo Smith; his sister, Linda Smith; his brother, Lenard Smith; his beloved son, Michael “Mike” Gore; and his brother-in-law, Rick Hoover. Though they passed before him, the love they shared and the memories they created will forever remain a part of his story. May they now be reunited in peace.

Though Dannie may no longer be here to make everyone laugh, the stories, memories, and love he left behind will live on for generations. His family will forever carry a piece of him in their hearts, remembering his laughter, his love of fishing, his knife collection, his pool games, his outdoor adventures, and all those hilarious campground moments that made him so special.

Dannie will forever be loved, forever be missed, and never be forgotten. His life was filled with hard work, family, friendship, laughter, and countless memories that will continue to bring smiles through the tears. May he rest peacefully, reunited with his loved ones who went before him, knowing the love he shared will live on through his family for generations to come.

Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com