Michael V. Smart Sr.

Michael V. Smart Sr.
Beloved husband of Karen Smart; Devoted father of Melissa Smart, Michael (Suzanne) Smart Jr., Megan Smart, Matthew (Kelsey) Smart and Mallory (Bulent) Smart; Loving son of the late Shirley Smart; Dear brother of the late David Smart; Cherished grandpa of Hayley, Michael III, Alyssa, Carter, Andrew, Caitlin, Evan, Logan, Johnathan, Jackson and Emily; Loving brother-in-law of Terrence (Claire) Morton, the late Lawrence (Carol) Morton, Gerald (Ruth) Morton, Sharon Atchue, Mary (Mike) Knoch, Phyllis (Bill) Heimdal, Theresa Morton; Dear uncle of many nieces and nephews. Born on May 17, 1953, in California, Michael spent most of his life in Chicagoland, where he built a lasting legacy rooted in faith and family. At 19, he married Karen, the love of his life, after meeting as teenagers while working together. Their bond never wavered. For over fifty years, they stood side by side, raising five children and building a home full of love, steadiness, and devotion.

Michael was a devoted Roman Catholic who lived with quiet strength and deep conviction. He had a lifelong passion for history and spent countless hours on ancestry.com, tracing the family’s roots and sharing his discoveries. He was also a dedicated fan of the Chicago White Sox and Bears and never watched a game without raising his voice at the TV at least once.

He was a steady and dependable father who believed in showing up. In the last 25 years, becoming a grandfather brought a new kind of joy into his life. He rarely missed a game, a birthday, or a holiday. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, sitting at the table, or just spending time nearby, his presence was a constant source of comfort and love. His grandchildren were his greatest pride, and the time he spent with them became the most treasured part of his life.

He will be remembered for his quiet humor, his deep sense of family, and the way he made everyone feel cared for without needing to say much. His presence, his stories, and his unwavering love will never be forgotten.