Smith, Brett Jeffrey

Brett Jeffrey Smith, 19, of Solon, died Monday, April 16, 2012, at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Celebration of Life services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 24, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Solon. Visitation will be from 2 until 7 p.m. Monday at the church. Brosh Chapel in Solon is handling arrangements.

Brett was born Nov. 12, 1992, in Iowa City, the son of Jeff and Carmen (Steckly) Smith. Brett died on his dad's birthday which was quite an honor to his dad. He graduated from Solon High School in 2011. He was a wonderful young man who seemed to touch so many people. He brought together our families, our community and surrounding communities. He fought to the end, never giving up. He really loved life, he had lots of plans, with friends and family. Brett's favorite things to do were HUNT turkey, deer and mushrooms, ride the ranger or 4-wheeler, going on vacation to Chetek, Wis., and hanging out with his friends. He got the last word … every time.

Brett is survived by his parents, Jeff and Carmen; sisters, Katie Smith and Becca Smith; grandfather, Vernon Smith; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Maxine Smith and Dale and Dorothy Steckly; uncle, Doug Steckly; cousins, Merrick Ham and Kaitlyn Behr; and his special humor mentor, “uncle” Bruce Zenisek.

The family requests no flowers or plants; memorials will be directed to the Solon Trapshooting Team, 7th Floor Leukemia at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and Solon Parks and Recreation.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.

Published April 21, 2012 in The Gazette