Elmer Smits

Elmer Smits, age 80, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2015 at his home with family by his side.

Elmer was born on July 18, 1934 in the Township of Fox Lake, the son of John and Jessie (Stiemsma) Smits. Elmer attended the East Friesland Christian School. In 1954-1956 he was enlisted in the US Army and stationed in Germany and while he was there he visited family in Holland. Elmer married Tracy Dykstra on May 10, 1957 at the First Reformed Church of Randolph and farmed on the family farm his whole life. He served as Deacon and Elder at the First Randolph Christian Reformed Church and was on the East Friesland Christian School and CWCH Board. Elmer was also trustee for Sunny Creek Cheese Factory for over 25 years.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 58 years and were blessed with 3 daughters, Susan (Terry) Mason, Patricia Miller and Terri (David) Hermes; two sons John (Debbie) Smits and Dwayne (Rita) Smits; 7 grandchildren; 2 grandsons, Josh Mason and Jesse Smits, 5 granddaughters, Krista (Joshua) Zaddack, Emily and Rochelle Smits, Gabriella and Madelyn Hermes; sister Dorothy Tobak; sister-in-law Winifred (Alfred) Tillema; brother -in-law Jerry Riley and two dear friends Dewey Katsma and Evelyn Vander Galien also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Matthew Miller and one sister Sadie.

A celebration of Elmer’s life will be held at 11 A.M. on Friday, June 5, 2015 at First Christian Reformed Church, N8876 E. Friesland Road, Friesland with Rev. Ken Prol officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Randolph VFW Post 9510.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4th at church from 5-7 P.M. and on Friday at 10 A.M. until the time of service.

Memorial fund will be established to Hillside Hospice and the First Christian Reformed Church library.