Dean M. "Luke" Smith

ST. JOSEPH – Dean M. "Luke" Smith, 80, of St. Joseph passed away at 4:50 p.m. Friday (April 8, 2016) at his home.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Luke was born Feb. 17, 1936, in Effingham, the son of Maynard and Marion McCoy Smith. He married Ruth Greeson on Aug. 9, 1957, in St. Joseph. She survives.

Also surviving are his children, Kenneth (Cheryl) Smith of Oklahoma City, Raymond Smith of Stone Ridge, Va., and Karen (Tieje) Gaylord of St. Joseph; seven grandchildren, Kyle, Megan and Andy Smith, Alison and Zander Smith, and Sarah and Hannah Gaylord; four great-grandchildren, Hudson, Lincoln, Afton and Luke Smith; one brother, Don Allen Smith of St. Joseph; and one sister, Jane Dowling of Lake Okeechobee, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Stanley Smith; and sister, Mary Lou Smith.

Luke worked for Felmely-Dickerson Construction of Champaign for 41 years. He was a member of Carpenters Local 44 of Champaign. Luke enjoyed restoring antique Ford cars, trucks and tractors. He was always glad to help family and friends with projects, till gardens and plow snow. The family extends a special thanks to the oncology department, fourth floor, Christie Clinic, Rainbow Hospice and all the family and friends for visiting with Luke.

Freese Funeral Home, 302 E. Grand Ave., St. Joseph, is handling arrangements.