Obituary of James E. Smith

Smith, James. E. of Saginaw, Michigan formerly of Lake Mary, Florida and Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at his residence at Luther Manor. He was 98 years old. James E. Smith was born on January 18, 1917 in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania to the late Clarence and Edna (Barnes) Smith. Jim was a 1936 graduate of Beaver Falls High School where he played both basketball and football. He married his high school sweetheart, Helen M. Dershimer on April 12, 1939 in Beaver Falls; she preceded him in death on March 12, 1999. Jim proudly served in the United State Army Medical Corps during World War II from October 1943 to February 1946; stationed throughout the Pacific Theatre earning many medals and ribbons. Jim worked in management for Babcock & Wilcox Tubular retiring in January 1979 after nearly 40 years of dedicated service. He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #4232, American Legion Post #439, and the Washington Club all in Saginaw. Jim was also a member of the Elks's Club, American Turner's Club, American Legion Post #261, and St. Mary's Catholic Church in Beaver Falls, PA. Jim was an avid golfer, playing into his 90's. He also enjoyed bowling and dancing with his beloved wife, Helen. Jim and Helen eventually retired to Lake Mary, Florida where he was a season ticket holder for the Orlando Magic. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, especially for his beloved teams the Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Steelers. Above all, he loved and cherished his family. Surviving are a son and daughter: James M. Smith of Jamestown, NY and Regina A. (William) Skvarla of Saginaw; daughter-in-law, Ann Smith of Penn Hills, PA; six grandchildren: Marijude (Scott) Lowman, Dale G. Smith, Christine Macedone, James R. Smith, Jamie (Jeremy) Sanderlin, and Brian Skvarla; and one great-granddaughter, Maryellen (Steve) Fital. In addition to his wife, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Dale E. Smith; a daughter-in-law, Judith Smith; and two brothers, Robert and Forest Smith. FUNERAL: A Prayer Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at the Campbell Funeral Home, 1326 8th Ave., Beaver Falls, PA. Rev. Fr. John Naugle will officiate. Military honors will follow under the auspices of Beaver County Veterans Honor Guard. Interment will take place in St. Mary's Cemetery. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the Campbell Funeral Home on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Prayer Service. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 4735 W. Michigan Ave., Saginaw, MI, 48638 or the Knights of Columbus Council #4232 4840 Shattuck Rd., Saginaw, MI, 48603. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.deislerfuneralhome.com or www.campbellfuneralhome.com.