Peter Graf Smith

Peter G. Smith, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 22, 2025. Born on June 22, 1938, Pete lived a life marked by devotion to family, to service, and to the people whose lives he touched with his kindness and quiet strength.

On September 22, 1962, Pete married the love of his life, Sandra Smith, beginning a 60-year partnership built on love, respect, and unwavering support. The couple made their early home in Palatine, IL, where they welcomed two children and began the legacy of a family that would grow to include eight grandchildren and five beautiful great-granddaughters, with another great-granddaughter expected in early 2026.

Pete proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, carrying the values of integrity, duty, and honor with him throughout his life. His professional career was marked by the same dedication. As President and COO of Lawson Products in Des Plaines, IL, he led with genuine care and an uncommon understanding of the people who worked alongside him. Colleagues remember him not just as a leader, but as a mentor who valued kindness, fairness, and the well-being of his employees. At home, Pete led his family with similar grace. He taught his children and grandchildren the importance of respect, of showing up for one another, and of putting others first. Providing for his family was not just a responsibility to him, it was a privilege and a calling he fulfilled with pride.

Pete enjoyed the game of golf and found joy in the sunshine and slower pace of life. He and Sandra began spending part of the year in Florida before making Fort Myers their full-time home in 2015. They made a beautiful home in the Forest Country Club, surrounded by a community of friends. In addition to golf, Pete and Sandy discovered they had a competitive streak and led their Bocce team to several club championships. Their door was always open, and friends and family alike cherished the warmth of their company and generous hospitality.

Pete is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra; his parents Raymond and Martha and stepmother Inez; and a sister Martha (Glen) Peterson. He is survived by his daughter Kimberly (Tim) Hoklas of Naples, FL; his son Kevin (Mary Beth) Smith of Bartlett, IL; nieces Heather (Jack) Cramer of West Chicago, IL and Jan Peterson; nephews, Scott and Todd Peterson; grandchildren Megan (Karl) Spaeth of Pleasant Prairie, WI, Ryan Hoklas of Safety Harbour, FL, Kirsten (Michael) Wyatt of Crystal Lake, IL, Rebecca Hoklas of Tampa, FL, Nicholas (Abby) Hoklas of Antioch, IL, Tyler Smith of Chicago, IL, Jason Smith of Chicago, IL, and Nathan Smith of Chicago, IL; great grandchildren Alexa and Adalynn Spaeth, and Elizabeth, Chloe, and Ellie Wyatt, and all those whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Pete will be remembered for his steady leadership, his deep love for his family, his generosity, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind. It was his wish to be remembered as full of life, so his family will mourn Pete privately. To all whose lives he blessed, please cherish the memory of his steady guidance, his love for life and family, and the beautiful example he provided as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend.