Visitation Information

William D. Smith , "Bill"

Passed away on July 20, 2026

William D. Smith, age 73, late of Schererville, IN. Passed away July 20, 2026. Beloved husband of Margaret “Peggy” (nee Faith) for 40 years. Loving father of Stacy (Scott) Laubhan, Sarah (Steve) Dowd, and Dylan (Alisha Page) Smith. Cherished grandfather of Jesse (fiancée Zoe Jones) Chavez, Christian Chavez, Victoria “Tori” Dowd, Ryan Dowd, and Luke Dowd. Devoted brother of Ed (Ros) Smith, Jim (Kathy) Smith and Ken (Vicki) Smith. Dearest brother-in-law of Mike (Beth) Faith, Betsy (Jim) LaRiccia, Carolyn (late Keith) Custer, and Bill (Barb Poppe) Faith. Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Bill became a licensed funeral director and embalmer in 1977.  He spent the early part of his career working for various funeral homes from 1978 until 1993 when he started at Elmwood Chapel.  Bill served the families of Elmwood Chapel with the upmost professionalism, dedication, and empathy until he retired in 2007.

Bill grew up on the water at Lake Geneva, where his lifelong love of boating proudly earned him the title of "Captain Bill."  Though quiet by nature, Billy could easily rise to the occasion as the life of the party.  He remained a loyal Chicago sports fan through every season, rarely missing a chance to cheer on the Cubs, Bears, and Bulls. Of course, game days were best enjoyed with an ice-cold Old Style in hand— but only brewed as "the original recipe."   Bill had a gift for working with his hands and taught himself everything from woodworking to playing guitar. Many evenings were spent with Bob Dylan echoing through the house while he successfully learned to strum along.  Through it all, home was his anchor and he cared deeply for his family - his wife, "the girls", and his son.   

Visitation Friday, July 24, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at the Elmwood Funeral Chapel, 11300 W 97th Lane, St. John, IN. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or Suncrest Christian Church in Bill’s name would be appreciated.