Obituaries

Aaron Andrew Smith, age 48, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, died July 30, 2025, in Petoskey, Michigan. He was born on May 8, 1977, in Lake Forest, Illinois to James and Sirkka-Liisa (Pennanen) Smith.

Aaron was a writer who lived abroad in Singapore for two years, where the local culture sparked his inspiration. However, he chose to set aside his career ambitions to become a full-time caregiver for his mother, who would come to suffer from severe dementia. Despite the challenges he faced, Aaron consistently showed incredible kindness and generosity to everyone he met.

Brilliant, sharp-minded, and possessing a delightfully quirky sense of humor, Aaron had a deep love for Japanese culture and often dreamed of moving to Japan. He had a rich appreciation for both Asian and American pop culture, which fueled his passion for Anime.

An avid reader, Aaron also aspired to write books and screenplays, particularly in the horror genre. Outside of reading and writing, he was a dedicated gamer and a loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bulls.
Aaron is survived by his mother, Sirkka-Liisa Smith; sister, Pennie Ungar-Sargon and her husband Eliyahu of Los Angeles, California; and three beloved cousins who will miss him dearly.

Aaron was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Olive Smith, and Aili and Otto Pennanen; aunts, Gail Smith and Donna Jones; and uncle, Craig Smith.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 4951 S. M-129, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, with a funeral service to follow at 2:30 pm.

Aaron’s final resting place will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Petoskey, Michigan.