James R. Smith, 62, of Alpena, died Thursday, Oct. 17, 2012, at home following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family. 

Jim was born Dec. 6, 1949, in Alpena to Morris and Beatrice (Thomas) Smith, and except for time spent in the Navy during the Vietnam Conflict, was a life-long resident of the area.  He married Shirley Trapp on Jan. 23, 1971, in Alpena.  He was a millwright working for DPI for 37 yrs. retiring in 2010.  He was a member of the Alpena Boosters Club, since 1973, and supported all sports programs.  

Surviving are his wife of 41 yrs., Shirley, three children, Mike (Jen) Smith; Brenda (Pat) Stanton; Doug Smith, all of Alpena, 9 grandchildren, a sister, Joanne (Robert) Kuchinicki and a brother, Bill (Mary Lou) Smith of Alpena.  He was preceded in death by two brothers, Russ and Duke.

Jim is at McWilliams Funeral Home, Alpena, where friends may call on Friday from 2-8 p.m. and on Sat. from 9 a.m. until the time of the Service of Remembrance at 10 a.m.  Military honors will be provided by VFW Post #2496 at 5 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. 

Interment will be at King Settlement Cemetery.