Obituary Examples for Father

John Michael Smith
June 18, 1945 – December 5, 2023
Austin, Texas

John Michael Smith, beloved father, grandfather, husband, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2023, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Austin. Born on June 18, 1945, in Dallas, Texas, to the late William and Margaret Smith, John was the oldest of three children and grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love for his family.

After serving in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1967, John attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He dedicated 40 years to his career at Austin Manufacturing, where he rose to the position of Senior Engineer, respected by colleagues for his integrity, problem-solving skills, and willingness to mentor younger employees.

John married the love of his life, Mary, in 1970, and together they raised two children: Michael (52) and Jennifer (49). He was a devoted husband and father, who never missed a Little League game, a school play, or a chance to teach his kids the value of hard work and kindness. As a grandfather to five grandchildren—Ethan, Lily, Noah, Ava, and Mia—he cherished every moment spent fishing, building treehouses, and telling stories of his childhood.

John was an avid outdoorsman, who loved hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. He was a lifelong fan of the Texas Longhorns, a dedicated volunteer at his local VFW post, and a man of quiet faith who attended Austin Community Church for over 50 years.

John was preceded in death by his parents William and Margaret Smith, and his brother Robert Smith. He is survived by his wife Mary of 53 years; his children Michael (Lisa) Smith and Jennifer (Mark) Davis; his grandchildren; his sister Susan Jones; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A funeral service will be held on December 10, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Austin Community Church, 456 Oak Street, Austin, TX. Interment will follow at Austin Memorial Park, with military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in John’s honor.

Robert James Wilson
March 22, 1950 – November 18, 2023
Denver, Colorado

Robert James Wilson, 73, of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2023, with his family by his side. Born in Denver to James and Helen Wilson, Bob was a loving father to three children—David, Sarah, and Thomas—and a proud grandfather to six grandchildren.

Bob worked as a carpenter for over 40 years, building homes and lasting memories for countless families. He loved woodworking, gardening, and spending time with his grandkids. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Linda, who predeceased him in 2020.

Bob is survived by his children, grandchildren, his brother Richard Wilson, and his sister Mary Taylor. A private family service will be held in his honor, with a celebration of life to follow in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Denver Food Bank, a cause Bob cared deeply about.

Thomas Lee Carter
August 10, 1948 – October 20, 2023
Seattle, Washington

Thomas Lee Carter—our dad, our hero, our biggest fan—left this world on October 20, 2023, after a life filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering love for his family. Born in Seattle to Frank and Betty Carter, Tom was a free spirit who lived life on his own terms.

Tom was a commercial fisherman for over 30 years, spending his days on the Puget Sound, telling stories, and bringing home the catch of the day for his family. He loved rock climbing, playing guitar, and taking road trips with his kids (no map needed—he knew every backroad in Washington). As a father to four—Amy, Brian, Jessica, and Eric—he taught us to be brave, to laugh at ourselves, and to always stand up for what’s right.

Tom’s greatest joy was being "Papa" to his eight grandchildren, who will remember him for late-night ice cream runs, campfire stories, and his famous "dad jokes" that never got old. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, his partner of 15 years, Susan, and his loyal dog, Max.

Instead of a traditional funeral, we invite you to join us for a Celebration of Tom’s Life on October 28, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Alki Beach in Seattle. Bring a picnic, your favorite fishing story, and let’s raise a glass to the man who made every day an adventure.

In Tom’s honor, wear casual clothes (he hated suits!), bring a chair, and consider donating to the Puget Soundkeeper Alliance—an organization he supported for decades.