Craig Dennis Smith, 65 of Port Orange, Florida, passed away on Sunday August 29, 2021 in the presence of his son and nephew. After several years of poor health he opted to join his beloved daughter, Lindsay, in heaven.

Craig was born in Independence, Iowa on October 31, 1955; a true Trick and Treat to Cecil (Smitty) Smith and Janet (Ruffin) Smith. He attended school in Independence, graduating from Jefferson High School with the class of 1974. While in high school he participated in football, basketball and was student body President both his junior and senior years. After graduation he attended Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa where he graduated in three years with a BA in Economics.

After graduation he and his father opened Dad's Place in Independence where Craig served his many loyal friends and customers.

Shortly after this he moved to Daytona Beach Florida. He had visited there on Spring Break in college and fell in love with the ocean.

There he connected with  a friend who was starting Champion Rent To Own and Craig joined on the ground floor. He moved up to become director of the Southeast Region, traveling all the Southeastern states. After the company was sold he decided to return to the hospitality industry. He was franchisee for Mr Goodcents on International Speedway in Daytona for several years. He loved the interaction with the public but decided the hours were too long and he returned to the rent to own business with Buddy's. He then retired from there in 2014.

Craig married Diana Blumenshime, also of Independence, in 1985. To this union two children were born, Lindsay Dee and Dustin Craig. They were later divorced.

Craig is survived by his son, Dustin, of Port Orange and granddaughter Isabelle, also of Port Orange and two grandsons Dayton Alderman and Jaxson Alderman of Kingsland, Georgia. He is also survived by two brothers, Terry (Karen) of Marion, Iowa and and Mark (Connie) of West Union , Iowa. He also leaves loved nieces Lainie Smith of Iowa; Lexie Farmer of North Carolina; and Lauren Smith of Seattle and special nephews Brad Smith of Daytona; Jesse Smith of Iowa and Jeremy Smith of Minneapolis. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his daughter Lindsay Smith-Alderman

Craig was loved by many for his outgoing personality and love of family and he will be missed more than we can say. Have a great time on the beach with Lindsay!!!