Obituary of Daniel Frank Smith

Daniel F. Smith, 71, Mohawk Member, raised on Onondaga Nation, and lifelong resident of Syracuse, sadly left this life on February 17 to begin his final journey to Creator's Land. After attending LaFayette High School, Dan proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1969 -1972.

Dan enjoyed coaching the Firekeeper's Broomball Team- winning multiple championships. He also loved watching and playing lacrosse; and would coach many levels. Dan was a loyal OAC member, and served on the committee in the earlier years of development. He then went on to work for National Grid for 30 years, retiring as a Line Foreman. Dan continued to work as a Storm Service Assessor, often traveling around the country to help restore electrical services to local communities. Dan participated in various woodworking shops throughout Syracuse, and would tinker at home in his woodshop. He was a member of the Nedrow Sportsmen's Club, and would help maintain the facilities there.

Dan's greatest joy was traveling to support his grandchildren as they participated in many sporting events. He had a passion for boating, fishing and golfing; and was an avid hunter. He looked forward to trips to Colorado to hunt elk with his friends. Dan was known for his gardening skills, and was generous to the community with his bounties. He may have seemed stern and gruff, but Dan had a heart of gold and would absolutely help anyone who needed anything.

Daniel is predeceased by: his father, Willard D. Smith; and sister, Kathy Brennan. He is survived by: his loving wife, Terry (Thomas) Smith; children, Lonnie (Belinda) Oakes, Lisa Oakes, and Paulette (Robert III) Bucktooth; grandchildren: Hajenhne Brown, Seeyoh Homer, Sadie Smith, Nelson Jones IV, Ryan Oakes, Elayna Jones, Kahtehliyo Smith; great grandchildren: Theo Martin, Tsha'hwishe Homer, Teiakorihotatahrho Delormier; brothers, Sherwin (Ruth) Hill, Wayne (Sharee) Smith, Roy Smith; sisters, Michele (Brian) Downey, Renee (Nathan) Hawker, Margaret (Chuck) Higgins; cousin, Alvin George; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, February 21 from 10 am to 12 Noon, at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, LaFayette. A funeral service will follow at 12 Noon. Burial will take place at Onondaga Valley Cemetery. The family asks that friends and family visit the family home on Fox Road in Syracuse, until Tuesday services.

To have a memorial tree planted in an area of need in honor of Dan, or to send flowers for services, please use the Send Flowers link to the left. Online condolences for his family may be left under his Tribute Wall.