Dennis Lee Smits, age 65, of St. John, IN, formerly of South Holland, passed away on Monday, December 12, 2005. Beloved husband of 42 years of Marilyn, nee Szczudlak; dear son of Henry and Laverne Smits; loving father of Kimberly (Tim) McClain and Kevin (Julie) Smits; dear grandfather of Kaitlyn and Lindsay McClain and Tyler Smits; fond brother of Woody (Rhonda) Smits. Preceded in death by infant daughter Nadine. Visitation Thursday, December 15, 2005 from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11 a.m. at the First Reformed Church (15924 South Park Ave. South Holland, IL). Interment Oak Ridge Cemetery, Lansing, IL. Dennis was a South Holland Police Officer for 32 years, 12 of which he served as Chief of Police. He was a member of the South Suburban Association, Illinois Association, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He was a graduate of the FBI Academy 125th Session (1981). Dennis also served in the United States Coast Guard. Memorial contributions can be made to Elim Christian Services (13020 S. Central Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463). Arrangements by the Smits, DeYoung-Vroegh Funeral Home, 649 E. 162nd St. (Rt.6/159th St.), South Holland, IL. 708-333-7000
