Edward Dominic Smendzuik

Edward Dominic Smendzuik of Birmingham, Michigan passed away on July 19, 2020. He was 67 years old. A natural storyteller of sharp wit, Ed was a source of stability for family and friends, always willing to lend a hand in times of need. Ed was born on April 11, 1953 in Hamtramck, Michigan. A graduate of St. Florian High School, he was a multitalented athlete, particularly excelling on the basketball court. A dedicated caddie at Detroit Golf Club, Ed was awarded the prestigious Evans Scholarship to attend Michigan State University (Go Green!) and completed his business degree. Ed made lifelong friends as part of the Evans Scholars program and was an active alum. He earned his MBA from Wayne State University while juggling a successful career in Telecommunication Sales. Ed was an accomplished distance runner in his adult life and was particularly proud of his completion of the renowned Bolder Boulder race and the Detroit Free Press Marathon. As a loving, involved father, Ed became a leader in the Birmingham-Bloomfield youth soccer community as a coach to his kids, and eventually as an administrator and referee. He cherished time with his children, with particularly fond memories of YMCA weekend campouts and ski trips. From his propensity for whistling show tunes, to his reputation amongst neighbors as the man who enjoyed shoveling snow in his shorts, Ed was truly one of a kind, and will be deeply missed. Ed is survived by his wife of 42 years, Connie, his daughter Mary Elizabeth Smendzuik, and his sons David (Caitlin) Smendzuik and Thomas Smendzuik. He is also survived by his siblings Julianne (William) Smendzuik-O’Brien, John (Bonnie) Smendzuik, and Marilyn (Robert) Rice. He joins in heaven his parents Edward and Stephany. A private burial service will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Detroit. Friends are invited to join the family for a celebration of life, Thursday, July 23, 2020, 5-8pm, at the pavilion at Springdale Park, 316 Strathmore Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI. All guests are asked to wear a mask, respect social distancing practices and make responsible decisions regarding any COVID-19 symptoms. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Evans Scholars Foundation can be made by mail to the Evans Scholars Foundation, 2501 Patriot Blvd, Glenview, IL 60026 or online: https://secure2.convio.net/wgaesf/site/Donation2?df_id=1520&1520.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T&pw_id=1521

Edward Dominic Smendzuik

April 11, 1953 - July 19, 2020