Obituary of Joseph G. Smith

Joseph G. Smith, who just celebrated his 87th birthday, went home to meet with our Lord early April 24, 2012 after a courageous struggle with a rare muscle-neurological degenerative disease. He was born in a house on Massillon Rd. back in the 20's; The house still stands today. After attending Greensburg elementary and East High School, he signed up to enlist in the U.S. Army and as a PFC 1st Class, was attached to the Battery B 569th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion, and was sent overseas to fight in several important battles in Germany and France after the invasion had taken place. Back in the States in 1946 he attended Hammel Actual Business College and also met his future wife. Starting as a mail room clerk he became the Advertising Production Manager for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for 30 plus years and then retired. Always the quintessential family man he loved to work in the yard, do gardening…build things…play with the kids and travel with the family. He liked music, reading and he liked movies and good story telling. He was very imaginative and creative often being a part of his children's creative endeavors. He was a friend to the animals and birds…having many bird stations in his backyard. He was a founding member of Messiah Lutheran Church and served on many committees and church council in the early days of Messiah's history. He was also a member of the Akron Adcraft Club and American Legion Post 209. Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marjorie in 2007; his parents, Paul Smith and Rose Chastvan Smith who were both Ellis Island immigrants from Yugoslavia; and his brothers, Paul Smith, Sr., Carl Smith; and sister, Luella Roberts. Surviving Joseph are his three children, Susie I. Smith, Richard J. Smith (Chip) and Jody A. Smith; along with grandchildren, Tyler Smith and Michael Watson; and sister, Rose Moskwa of California. Calling hours will be held Monday, April 30 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St. Akron, Ohio. Funeral service will be held Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. also at the funeral home with a luncheon following. Rev. Brian Millard will officiate. Military service and interment will be held at 2:30 p.m. at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio following the luncheon. Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr. Suite E, Green, Ohio 44685. (Anthony Funeral Homes, Akron, 330-724-1281, www.anthonyfh.com)