Prettic Lee Smith

Prettic Lee Pookey Smith, 55 of La Crosse passed away unexpectedly at his daughters home on Tuesday, December 6, 2011. Prettic was born to Lee Collin and Mary (Collier) Smith on September 18, 1956 in Chicago. He graduated from Harper High School and attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse where he played football until injuring himself. He then attended WWTC in La Crosse where he studied Auto Body Mechanics.

Prettic met Mary Dent, who became his wife on December 24, 1982. He worked at St. Francis Hospital and then for Mathy Construction for 30 years until his passing. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, cooking, baking, grilling, camping and of course, his Chicago Bears. Friends and family will miss his famous ribs, his Christmas ham, and especially, his laugh. Prettic made many friends through his journey in life and will leave a lasting impression. He has helped many people in his short life with his heart of gold- whether it was volunteering for charity, cooking and catering for parties, or some other act of kindness.

Prettic is survived by his wife Mary, his children; Cassondra (Antwan) King of Holmen and Prettic Smith II of La Crosse; his step-children; Jason Conrad (girlfriend Andrea) of Onalaska; Damian (Erin) Conrad of Melrose and Tisha (Jay) Marco of Melrose; his grandchildren Dion, Marshaun, Sam, Jacob, Matthew and Dillon; his mother, Mary Smith; a brother, Lee (Louise) Smith; a sister, Keisha Smith; and nieces and nephews, Edwina, Mann, Lakeeya and Jaylen all of Chicago; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; and his big bird Alex. Prettic was preceded in death by his father, Lee Collin Smith; a brother, Thaxter Smith and a half brother Perry.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, December 13th at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Avenue S.; La Crosse with Pastor Chris Crye officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Friends and family may call at the funeral home on Monday from 4-7 P.M. and again on Tuesday from Noon until the time of services.