Zachary "Zach" Don James Smith

Zachary Don James Smith, age 24, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 17, 2025, due to injuries sustained in a car accident. He was born on the Fourth of July in 2001, the most beloved son of Rollie Don Smith, Jr. and Sheila Irene Strozeski. Zach attended kindergarten through 10th grade in Linden before moving to Caseville where he graduated from in 2020. He excelled at football during high school and could always be found hanging out with his friends. Zach was an avid video gamer; Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo, it didn’t matter, he loved playing them all. He was happiest being around his best friends Dominic, Toni, Jacob, Stevo, Tom, Jack, and Dilon, and spending time with his family. Zach was a huge foodie and loved to eat! He and his friends made it their mission to find a buffet nearby to feast at. Zach loved being outside, riding bikes, going on walks, and fishing, especially with his Papa Dave.

Recently, Zach began working alongside his grandparents for the Huron County Road Commission as a grounds worker at Caseville Park. He took great pride in his work, showing up on time with a positive attitude and a strong commitment to doing his best. Health-conscious and active, Zach lived with energy and purpose. He was always eager to help others, whether it was carrying in all the groceries in a single trip or lending a hand whenever needed.

Zach’s infectious smile, uplifting spirit, and boundless kindness touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed beyond measure, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Zach is survived by his loving parents, Rollie Smith, Jr. and Sheila (Brian Kelly) Strozeski; he was the best big brother to Kylie Kelly; his grandparents, Gerald and Elizabeth Strozeski, Maryann Krenz, Rollie (Dawn Groulx) Smith, Sr., and Michelle Holm; uncles, Matthew Strozeski and Ryan Smith; aunt, Beth Ann Krenz; many other aunts and uncles; countless cousins; and many close best friends. Zach was welcomed home to heaven by his Papa Dave Belmont.

Zach’s memorial service will be on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Champagne Funeral Chapel in Pigeon, 7356 W. Michigan Ave., Pigeon, MI 48755. Rev. Karen Bouverette will be officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of Zach’s memorial. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Beth Strozeski, 9441 Crescent Beach Rd., Pigeon, MI 48755 or through GoFundMe, Click Here .