SANDUSKY, Ohio — Jeffrey K. Smith, 60, Sandusky, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Thursday, June 21, 2018.
He was born Feb. 22, 1958, in Springfield, Mass. He was retired for one year after having worked at the Sandusky Coal Docks for 39 years.
Jeff was an avid fisherman, golfer and outdoorsman who loved hiking and camping with his family and friends. He was a lover of children and animals, and they loved him back. So do we.
His famous "machine gun" laugh was recognizable from a distance, as was his beautifully on-tune whistling. A lovely singer, he was also so unafraid to dance that you couldn't help but join him. He was a great storyteller, in no small part due to his tendency toward what he always called the "Smith Exaggeration."
Jeff was a great dad and an even more incredible grandpa. It is not a "Smith Exaggeration" to say that his eldest grandson had become his best friend.
Jeff is survived by his wife of 31 years, Jackie Kleinfelter Smith; daughters: Amber (Jason) Klein, Brianna (Kevin) Karas and Jolie Smith (officially his dog); son, Jacob Smith; grandsons, Jak, Nolan and Alex Klein; older brother, Greg (Sara) Smith; younger brother, Sean Smith (officially his nephew); sister, Wendy (Emery) Pilkenton; brothers-in-law, William (Diane) and Mike Kleinfelter; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by an incredible group of friends whose love and kindness enhanced his life in every way that matters. There are too many to name here, but the love that they shared with him endures and his family is deeply grateful for all of them.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Francis Smith; brothers, Kenneth and Randy Doug Smith; sisters-in-law, Debbie and Carol Smith; and beloved pets, Shiloh, Cosmo and Ebony Smith.
A private service for immediate family was held at Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, Sandusky.
Jeff will be cremated and a celebration of life will be from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 6, at the Eagles on Perkins Avenue, Sandusky. All are welcome, and the family asks that you honor Jeff by wearing a Hawaiian shirt, dew rag or Crocs, and come with your favorite memory of Jeff to share.
*****
Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting toftfuneralhome.com.
