Karl R. Smith

Karl R. Smith, 59, of Loves Park died unexpectedly in his home January 11, 2024. Born February 13, 1964 in Muncie, IN; son of Ray and Dorothy (Gossett) Smith. Graduate of Muncie Southside High School, class of 1983. Veteran of the United States Army. He was employed at Windstar Lines, where he made many close friends and connections with his co-workers. Karl was previously employed at DeLong, Schneider, and Brown Printing Company. United in marriage to Michelle Chapman on June 3, 2017 in Pigeon Forge, TN. Karl made many happy memories with his children; he was an active and engaged father and "Papa" to his grandchildren. Karl enjoyed spoiling them every Christmas with the latest video game system and games that they were only allowed to enjoy after Karl tested them out first; he truly was a kid at heart. He was often found playing basketball and other sports with his kids. Karl loved watching them excel in their areas of interest. Karl was charming, genuine and had a warm smile that no one could forget. Karl was fearless; nothing in life scared him, which was evident when you saw him cruising on his Harley in flip flops and sunglasses. He faced each day with a positive attitude and a smile. He took to heart advice his grandpa gave him years ago and lived each day with the perspective of, "Never get too high or too low." in life. Karl was a big dreamer; he was always thinking about that next invention or company which would let him be his own boss. When he was off the clock, you could find him watching Indy racing, his Indianapolis Colts, or riding his Harley Road Glide Ultra. Most recently Karl could be found in his backyard setting up his bouncy house, playing laser tag with his beloved grandchildren at the campground, spending time at the beach in Florida, and helping his family with home improvement projects. Survived by his wife, Michelle; children, Anthony (Jessica) Smith, Gillian (Emily) Smith, Joshua Smith, Mitchell Smith; and their mother, Jennifer Smith, Jason (Heather) Chapman, Branden (Tami) Chapman, Justin (Karen) Chapman; grandchildren, Emma, Kyle, McKenzie, Jaxon, Logan, Paytyn, Lily, Julia; sister-in-laws, Kathy Bowling, Tanya Smith; nieces, Melissa Uberto, Kylie Smith; nephew, Trevor Smith. Preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Darrell Bowling, Brian Smith, Donald Smith and Robert Smith. Visitation will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services; 4301 N. Main St. Rockford, followed by a time to share stories and memories at 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Rockford Chapter of the Marine Toys for Tots, a cause close to Karl's heart. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.

Karl R. Smith

February 13, 1964 - January 11, 2024