Steven Douglas Smith

Steven Douglas Smith was born on September 30, 1949, in Grand Rapids, MN. He passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 19, 2025, at St Luke’s Hospital.

Steve belonged to the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and enjoyed sharing memories of his time growing up in Ball Club, Minnesota. Steve spent most of his adult life in Duluth. He attended a tech school for civil engineering, and then worked for more than 20 years as a transportation specialist (Civil Engineering Tech) at the Minnesota Department of Transportation. His work there included assisting in the development of new highways. He had many friends at MnDOT and was very proud of the work he did, retiring in 2015. Steve was a very hard worker and also worked for the Duluth News Tribune for many years.

One of Steve’s lifelong passions was woodworking, and he crafted many wonderful things over the years. He made numerous items for his daughters such as a unique square swimming pool, a teeter-totter that went up and down and back and forth, a swing set, bunk beds, and so much more. He also loved animals and cared for many dogs and cats over the years, with a special place in his heart for his beloved mastiff Gitchi. He enjoyed playing guitar and harmonica. He was also very skilled in the kitchen. He enjoyed making meals for his family and friends and was always on the hunt for the perfect chili recipe.

Steve was beloved by those who knew him. He had a rare gift in the ability to make others feel seen and loved, and he didn’t just listen with his ears but with his heart. The world feels a little emptier without him, but his kindness and loving smile will live on in our hearts.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother Laverne Marie Smith (McKenzie) and grandparents Bernie and Virginia Smith who raised him, sisters Diane, Donna, Marie McKenzie and brothers Bob and Richard McKenzie, aunts Darlene Smith, Julia Sherman, Caroline Smith. Uncles Sam Smith, Bernie “Mangie” Smith Jr. He is survived by his sisters Linda and Connie McKenzie, daughters Sonja and Stephanie Smith, stepdaughter Laura Blake, and many other family members and friends. Pall bears are Carter Barrett, Charles Prentice Jr, Bernie “Beanie” Smith III, Donald Sherman Sr, Donald Sherman Jr, Douglas Fairbanks. 

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