Edward Leo Smerza

Smerza, Edward

Howell, MI

His Legacy…Edward Leo Smerza, 86, passed away November 25, 2022.  He was born on April 14, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan to Leo Edward Smerza and Elsie (Habba) Smerza. Edward married the love of his life, Helen Nichols, on May 8, 1960, in Detroit, Michigan.  Edward will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who often volunteered to help others. Edward was an avid quilter and made beautiful quilts. He started quilting when his wife, Helen developed arthritis in her hands and he wanted to help her. Edward had worked with his hands his whole life as a tool and die maker and he was able to quickly pick up sewing. Edward belonged to the Howell Melon Patchers Quilt Guild where he made patriotic quilts for veterans. He and his wife, Helen, also made quilts for Project Linus, an organization that makes quilts for critically ill children. Edward also helped teach his daughter-in-law, Lisa, how to quilt and they made beautiful quilts together. Edward also enjoyed gardening and woodworking. He was easy going, and not quick to anger. Edward was a wonderful husband and father and will be deeply missed.

His Family…Edward will be missed by his son, David (Lisa) Smerza; siblings, Diann Thunderfyre, Betsy King, Michael (Nancy Keppelman) Smerza; and other family. He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen Smerza; and his parents, Leo and Elizabeth Smerza.

His Farewell… Edward’s family and friends will gather Wednesday, November 30, 2022 from 4PM-7PM, at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Howell Memorial Chapel, Howell, Michigan. His Community Farewell will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11:00AM (10AM gathering), at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Howell Memorial Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Michigan Humane Society or Food Gatherers. Please leave a message of comfort for Edward’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Leo Smerza, please visit our floral store.