Karl Smith

In Loving Memory of Karl Robert Smith

PRINCETON, MA - Karl Robert Smith, 68, passed away on August 2nd, 2023, after succumbing to many medical complications from his fight with Hodgkin's Lymphoma over 40 years ago. Born on May 27th, 1955 in Worcester, MA, he was a proud guardian of his Swedish heritage, which played a significant role in shaping the person we all knew and loved. He was born to Sonya (Carlson) and Gordon Smith and was the little brother to Ken Smith and Deborah Smith. His childhood was spent fishing with his grandmother and developing relationships with friends, many of whom became lifelong friends. In 1974, he graduated from Burncoat High School. He then went on to graduate from the Stockbridge School at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Not long after college, Karl became owner of Trees Unlimited. As a certified arborist, Karl built a thriving tree care business with a loyal customer following. His passion for his business, his love of nature and his commitment to preserving the environment made him a trusted expert in the local community and within the industry.

Karl was an avid traditional longbow hunter, fisherman, and gardener. Hunting season was his favorite time of year. He took many hunting trips throughout his lifetime and came back happier when he had a 10-pointer in the back of his truck. Fishing was a passion since childhood and his proficiency in the garden came from his mother.

He was well-known for his pickled herring and Swedish pancakes, for sharing glogg at countless holidays and get-togethers, and for being the true epitome of generosity. Karl touched countless lives with his selfless nature. He was always willing to go the extra mile, doing anything for anyone in need and putting others' well-being before his own. This is evident by the countless number of friends in his life. You couldn't go anywhere in Central Massachusetts without someone saying "hi" to him. He was a cherished friend to many.

His hearty laughter, his sense of humor and his secret painting ability will be missed. Although Karl was comically stubborn at times, it was all part of his endearing charm. It also made him the kind of person you could always count on. Our world is a better place because he was in it.

Karl leaves behind a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be deeply missed, but the memories of his kindness, generosity, and humor will forever live on in our hearts.

Karl is survived by his loving wife, Laurie (Borggaard) Smith; a daughter Mandee (Smith) Blair and her husband Justin of Chatham, MA; granddaughters Sadie and Tessa Blair; granddaughter Ainsley Poulin; stepson Spencer McAvey and his wife Abby of Rutland, MA; brother Ken Smith of Danvers, MA; a sister Deb Smith of Chelmsford, MA; an uncle Ken Carlson and his wife Nancy of Danbury, CT; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 7th from 4 to 8pm at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. Funeral Services are private and will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Karl's memory to Abby's House, ATTN: Accounting, 52 High Street, Worcester, MA 01609, which was a cause close to his heart and the heart of his mother.

Though we grieve the loss of Karl, we celebrate the incredible person he was, and we are grateful for the lasting impact he had on our lives.

To share a memory or offer an online condolence please visit his "Tribute Wall" on this page.