John Alfred Smale

John Alfred Smale, age 62, of Hessel, Michigan, died at McLaren Northern Hospital in Petoskey, Michigan, on April 15, 2022. He was born on May 29, 1959, in Cedarville, Michigan to Marlow and Beverly (Morrow) Smale.

John grew up in Cedarville and attended Cedarville High School of Les Cheneaux Schools. He married the love of his life, Judy, on July 11, 1987. They bought a house in Hessel shortly after and have called that home ever since.

John enjoyed fishing, playing the drums in his band, landscaping, decorating his yard, and spending time with his friends and family. He would always say, “the more the merrier.” He was a big fan of wrestling and would try to catch any wrestling games he could. He was especially a fan of wrestler Hulk Hogan.

John is survived by his wife, Judy Smale; stepson, Robert (Jodi) Henley, grandchildren, Seth Henley, Danielle Henley, and Kyle Henley; great-granddaughters, Rhyann Rain and Robbie Rose; sister, Becky Solomonson; nephews, Donnie (Tina) Solomonson and Eric Solomonson; niece, Danielle Solomonson; great-nieces, Deserray Pegg, Ciara Solomonson, Rozalynn, and Victoria; great-nephew, James; great-nephew, Kingston; and great-niece, Jordynn.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Marlow and Beverly Smale; brother, Marlow “Mush” Smale; sister, Lisa Smale; stepson, Jimmy Henley; and brother-in-law, Donald Solomonson.

Galer Dodson Funeral Homes & Cremation, of St. Ignace, Michigan, is servicing the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.galerfuneralhomes.com.