Merle A. Smith

Merle A. “Ike” Smith age 83 of Cedar Springs, died Saturday, January 13, 2024 at his home. He was born April 10, 1940 in Cedar Springs, MI the son of Alvin and Ida (Spencer) Smith. He worked for Bell Fiber Paper Company for 40 years. He served on the Solon Township Fire Department for 17 years and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was well known for his team of horses and pulling the wagon at Red Flannel Christmas Tree Farm and driving Santa around Cedar Springs. Surviving are his wife, Joyce who he married on July 19, 1959; sons, Jeff (Tammy) Hilliker, Roy Smith, Rick Smith; grandchildren, Randy (Lois) Smith, Dana (Melissa) Hilliker, Kimberly (Robert) Morehouse, Michelle (Tim) Westphal, Theresa (James) Raske, Nicki Hilliker; 14 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Rodney Smith; daughter-in-law, Nancy Smith. Cremation will take place and a celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.