Help Honor Darwin Smith: Support with funeral costs

With a heavy heart, we are saying goodbye to my father, Darwin. At the tender age of 58, he passed away peacefully in his sleep in Chicago, Illinois. He is survived by 6 children, many grandchildren, and pets. The funds raised here will help directly with funeral costs as he did not have a life plan. Although he was not particularly religious, my wish is to send him off in a way that honors his spirit and the way in which he touched many lives through his larger-than-life personality.

My father struggled with many things, but he was never short of love and generosity. If it was in his power to help, he would. His laugh was loud, he loved a good prank or surprise, and he always wanted to make people feel welcome and special. He loved to cook for people and host BBQs. Music was always playing. He loved to do holidays big and with his full heart.

He loved animals. We always had pets growing up, and he was always the first person to say yes to an animal being taken in.

He was an amazing contractor and incredibly gifted. If you could dream it, he could build it.

He was a very special person and had so much life ahead of him.

He also battled with his mental health, and although he did his best to keep that hidden, it was something he never got real help with.

He gave unconditional love, and his passing has been devastating for all that knew and loved him. I know that he is at peace now, and even if you never met him, he would have loved to have gotten to know you.

Any support you can give during this difficult time is greatly appreciated.

Blessings