Obituary of Keith Michael Smerak

In Loving Memory of Keith Smerak

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and friend, Keith Smerak, who lost his courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on June 17, 2023, at the age of 49. Keith's unwavering spirit, strength, and loving nature will forever be remembered and cherished by all whose lives he touched.

Born on April 29th, 1974, he grew up in the town of Wayne, NJ, where he learned the values of hard work, kindness, and loyalty that would shape his character throughout his life. He had a strong sense of duty to the community, serving as a Boy Scout and ultimately earning the title of Eagle Scout. He loved making and creating art, eventually majoring in graphic design at Trenton State.

Keith's greatest joy in life was his family. He married the love of his life, Agatha, in 2014, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them, a testament to the power of love and unwavering support. Keith was a devoted husband, always putting his family's needs before his own, and his love knew no bounds.

As a father, Keith was simply extraordinary. His two children, Julie and Zach, were the center of his world. He was their guiding light, their protector, and their biggest cheerleader. Keith's loving presence and unwavering support instilled in his children the strength to know that they can overcome any obstacle and become anything that they want to be. He instilled in them the values of compassion, resilience, and the importance of family, ensuring that his legacy would live on through them.

Professionally, Keith was a respected and dedicated business owner. For sixteen years, he built his marketing and graphic design business-ElementSix Creative Group. His attention to detail, strong work ethic, and ability to bring people together made him an invaluable leader. Keith's employees and clients regarded him not only as a skilled professional but also as a trusted friend. He will be remembered for his unwavering sense of compassion and empathy. Keith showed his dedication and commitment to his business by working up until the very last day of his life. 

In his free time, Keith enjoyed outdoor activities, especially hiking and mountain biking, and traveling and exploration. Nature was his sanctuary, a place where he found peace and serenity. He had a deep appreciation for the simple beauty of the world and loved sharing these moments with his loved ones. In addition, he avidly enjoyed watching the History Channel, especially the TV show Ancient Aliens.

Keith was a valued member of his community. He was known throughout the neighborhood as the most naturally talented handyman and as the man could fix anything. Even while undergoing chemotherapy, he managed to renovate the bathroom and his country house in the Adirondacks. 

Keith's passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, generosity, and infectious laughter brought light into every room he entered. He will be remembered for his unwavering strength, his loving heart, and his ability to find joy even in the face of adversity.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, Agatha; his children, Julie and Zach; and his dog River. He was Agatha’s rock and balancing force.  He also leaves behind a wide circle of extended family members, friends, and colleagues who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

A wake will be held at Dangler Funeral Home in Morris Plains, NJ on Sunday, June 25, 2023 from 2:00pm-5:00pm and a funeral mass will be held on Monday, June 26, 2023, at 9:30am at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel in Cedar Knolls, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in Keith's honor, to support ongoing research and patient advocacy.

Though Keith's journey on this earth has ended too soon, his legacy of love, kindness, and strength will endure. May his spirit live on in our hearts, reminding us to cherish every moment, hold our loved ones close, and embrace life with the same unwavering determination that he exemplified.

Rest in peace, dear Keith. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.