We lost a great Car Builder

[Smittys67]

It is with a very heavy heart that I write this. Yesterday I lost my Father Micheal (Papa) Smith he was my hero and as many of you know a Great Man. He and I co-founded Smittys together. Dad was one of the old-timers who started racing cars in the late 60's who did a lot with very little to do it with. He was the best fab guy you could ask for, I could just tell him what I wanted and he would built it. He taught Tony and I everything he knew, cars were our special bond.

On Saturday he decided he was done with his fight with his illness and said his good byes. Tony and I had a chance to tell some good stories and enjoy some of our favorite times. The last videos he watched were of my truck running the autocross at Texas. He was amazed at the advancements that have been made since we started this madness. One of his fondest memeries was at Putnam park For the Street Challange ( Thanks Bret ).

He said to say good bye to everyone.

RIP Papa

[intocarss]

Sounds like a geat man.. So sorry for your loss May he RIP

[califconstruct]

How cool to share your life with your Dad!.. , sorry for your loss.

[waynieZ]

Chris my heart goes out to you and your family for your loss. I'll keep you all in my prayers. Best thing is that a good man will be at peace when he leaves us.

[fleet]

Very sorry to hear that Chris.

My condolences to you and your entire family.

[GregWeld]

Chris --

I miss my Dad so much -- so I'm sorry for your tragic loss...


I have him out in the shed and talk to him all the time. Sounds weird, but he's right where he would like to be... out there bossin' my sorry ass around and makin' sure I do it right!

[millertime179]

Sorry for your loss Chris. I can relate to the father son relationship through cars. Sounds like he was a great man but he is now in a better place. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Kevin Miller

[Streetking]

Sorry for your loss Chris. My condolences to you and your family.

[ccracin]

So sorry Chris! My Dad and I have the same relationship and I don't want to ever see that day! With the skills and love he taught you for cars, He will live forever in the projects you turn out. May he rest in peace.

[Al Moreno]

Never easy, my condolence!

[glassman]

Sorry for your loss. I was fortunate enough to work for my dad for 10 years, then he worked for my company for 5 years. Hes still around though a few hours away, when he lost his dad and my papa, Man U never stop missing him.

[NovaBlue71]

Sorry to hear the news Chris, my heart felt condolences to you and your family. Without a doubt I'm sure you learned so much from him, You are a talented builder who is lucky enough to say he had the chance to work and learn from the man you will always admire the most. take care. Joe

[Sieg]

He set you on a good course, do him proud...........RIP Papa. :thumbsup:

[Todd in vancouver]

So sorry to hear of your loss and send my condolence. Nice to hear you got to spend some time with him and thanks for sharing a heartfelt story.

[Smittys67]

Thanks for the support guys!

To honor Dad we a throwing his 56 2 door wagon together. Its was a flat black street/drag car that ran in the low 12s since the mid 80s on street tires. It has been in the family since 1971. This car is the reason fuel runs threw our veins.

Dad's final ride will be in this car!!

Time to go custom paint a casket.