Orville E. Smith

Orville E "Gene" Smith, 87, of Kent, passed away Monday, April 23, 2012 at Robinson Memorial Hospital. He was born February 23, 1925 in Spencer, W.V. to Waitman T. and Florence Eveline (Currey) Smith. He was a veteran of the U S Army during the World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service in the European Theatre. He then went on to graduate from West Virginia University, and enjoyed a long career at Oak Rubber Company in Ravenna, retiring in 1986 as Vice President and Treasurer. Gene was a long time member of Twin Lakes Country Club and enjoyed many hours of golf and playing cards there. He was also a member of Moriah Masonic Lodge No 38, Spencer, W.V. Gene will be remembered for his sharp wit and sense of humor that he carried with him throughout his entire life. He was honest and fair and provided a warm and loving home for his family. He will be dearly missed. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Laverne Smith; son, David Smith of Kent; daughter, Sue Smith of Kent; granddaughter, Laura Smith of Kent; sister-in-law, Dorothy (Charles) Flogge of Stow; sister-in-law, Diana Moscoe of Ravenna; sister-in-law, Lucille Smith of Denver, CO., as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by six brothers and three sisters and his daughter-in-law, Ruth (Knestrict) Smith. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ruth Knestrict Smith Vocal Scholarship Fund at Kent State University. Please send contribution to Kent State University Foundation Inc., PO Box 5190, Kent, Ohio 44242-0001. Bissler & Sons Funeral Home and Crematory are handling the arrangements. Private family services will be held at a later time.