George P. Smits Sr.

George P. Smits Sr., 90, of Camillus, passed away Monday, February 15, 2016 at Upstate University Hospital at Community General. Born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, he was raised in Watertown and lived in Camillus since 1963.  He was a Navy veteran of World War II. A graduate of St. Lawrence University, George was owner of the Yackel & Rupp Insurance Agency. An active communicant of St. Joseph's Church, George also volunteered reading to the preschool program at St. Joseph's, worked in the food pantry at the Cathedral and with Meals on Wheels.  He was an avid reader and SU fan but above all, loved spending time with his family. George was predeceased by his wife, Sally; daughter, Michaela Cardinal; and grandson, Christopher Smits.  Surviving are his daughters, Stephanie Scheirer of Syracuse, Katrinia Smits of Denver, CO, Sara Lisa (Dan) King of Liverpool, and Jennifer (Joe) Gettino of Camillus; sons, Patrick (Stephanie) Smits of Dallas, TX and Michael (Dori) Smits of Syracuse; grandchildren, Matthew (Angela), Joshua (Teri), Colin, Sophie, Vinny and Anthony; great-grandchildren, Madison, Greg, Josh and Clare; several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the staff on 3 West of Upstate University Hospital at Community General for their compassion and support, especially that of Dr. Khan. Relatives and friends may call Saturday, February 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at St. Joseph's Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A funeral Mass will follow at noon.  Burial will be private in Maplewood Cemetery, Camillus. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Joseph's Preschool Program, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY  13031. Share condolences at www.BuranichFH.com