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Fred Smith Obituary

Smith, Br Fred, OFM Born December 24, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois, died at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center May 5, 2011 at 4:10 PM. Survived by two sisters Gloria Batts (Leslie) and Joyce Little Niece: Misty F Evans. Brothers of the Franciscan Province of the Sacred Heart. Fred Smith was received into the Order of Friars Minor (the Franciscans) on June 21, 1965. He followed the formation program for Franciscan Friars at Saint Paschal Friary in Oak Brook, IL and Saint Francis Friary in Teutopolis,IL. On June 15 1970 he pronounced his solemn perpetual vow as a Franciscan Friar. Within the community he served as a tailor making the religious habit for his fellow Franciscans. The principal ministry of Brother Fred was in the City of Chicago. For twelve years he served in various administrative roles at Hales Franciscan High School, 4930 Cottage Grove Avenue, where he was fondly regarded by faculty and students. This was followed by a long period of service as receptionist at Saint Peter's Catholic Church in the Loop. Failing health brought him to the retirement community of Saint Joseph Village where with his outgoing, cheerful and understanding ways he was an active participant in the various social and religious activity of the residence. An accomplished organist he coordinate the music for the liturgies and religious services in the chapel. The body of Brother Fred will be received at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 10 at Saint Peter's Church, 110 West Madison Street in Chicago and will be in state until a wake service at 7:30 P.M. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 11th in Saint Peter's Church. Burial will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on May 8, 2011.

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Michael Baker

May 13, 2011

God Bless you sir......Michael A. Baker Hales Franciscan C/O '87

Philip Dawkins

May 11, 2011

A great man, that showed us all how to be a friend & brother. You truly will be miss but not forgotten. Philip A. Dawkins c/o 89

richard kemp

May 11, 2011

a job well done! i recall the time we would do inventory in the bookstore and you would instill in me life tools based on character and integrity. what a friend you were and mentor. you gave me my first job and you taught troy and i the meaning of leadership. you will be missed dearly! may god be please with you! C\0 88"

Leisa Braband

May 11, 2011

I knew Brother Fred from St. Peters. He was the perfect receptionist/ambassador for St. Peters as his smile was a welcoming beacon to whoever visited. It wouldn't surprise me if God posted him at Heaven's front door. I can't think of a better celestial greeter.

Milton Hackney

May 11, 2011

You will always be remembered in my heart as the one who inspired me to see the world. You were a good friend to me in high school dear friend may good keep you safe and warm. Milton Hackney

Cathy Benoit

May 10, 2011

There was no one else like Brother Fred. I will never forget him...especially his cheerfulness and laughter. A quote which aptly describes Bro. Fred's character is: "The true source of cheerfulness is benevolence." Bro. Fred was, truly, cheerful and kind. I'll miss you Bro. Fred.

Yuji Toefield (c/o 1990)

May 10, 2011

Bro. Fred....you and you family are in my thoughts and prayers. You are now "at home".....job well done! Rest in Peace & Thank you for being such a great, down to earth role model at Hales.

Melvin Rice

May 10, 2011

My deepest sympathy goes out to Bro. Fred's family. He was a GREAT presence dueing my time at Hales. He will be truely missed. R.I.P. GOD has a new angel.

Melvin Rice (c/o '87)

charles hines

May 10, 2011

you will always be remembered as our hales franciscan brother, teacher, mentor and friend. may you rest in peace. class of 88.

Timothy Montson

May 10, 2011

My Deepest sympathy, Brother Fred will truly be missed. He was a great inspiration and so many lives. My God keep you and continue to be the angel He sent you too be. God Bless

Marty Mueller

May 9, 2011

Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit.

Blessings to Br. Fred's family.

Michael Haynes

May 8, 2011

My deepest sympathy goes out to the Smith Family and the Franciscan community. He will be dearly missed!

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results

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