Gordon Edward Smith was born Feb. 25, 1949 and passed into Heaven on Dec. 26, 2018. Gordon died at home from complications with chronic lymphocytic leukemia while surrounded by those who love him.

He was preceded in passing by his father and mother, Donald Smith and Alice Lamb, both of Benzonia; and his sister, Lori Jean Lamb.

He is survived by his fiancée, Heather Hansen, of Payson, Arizona; his daughter, Jennifer Lawless and her husband, Ed; and his stepdaughter, Juliet and her husband, Seth Orris. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Smith, of Grawn; and beloved sisters, Linda Sheehan and her husband, Tim, Susan Samuels and her husband, Blake, and Anne Staver and her husband, Tracey. He is also survived by dear step siblings Sarah, Randy and Ben Tompkins; his beloved grandchildren, Sandra, Hunter and Steele Orris; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends throughout the world.

Gordon was a U.S. Navy veteran who served in the Vietnam War, loved the Beatles, was a talented musician and had a lifelong gift of humor that he shared with all he met. Gordon loved his family and friends and his belief in the innate goodness of humanity is an enduring part of his legacy. To spend time with Gordon was to know you were going to have fun! You would laugh, maybe sing, and definitely be accepted and loved just as you were. His smiling blue eyes, beautiful music and big bear hug will all be missed.

Gordon - thank you for the joy you brought to so many - love always lasts.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or your charity of choice.