Ralph A. Smith

Ralph Smith, 94, passed away January 3, 2021 after a brief illness. He was born August 3, 1926 in Kenmore, Ohio to the late Amos and Lillian Smith. He lived in Akron all his life and attended Kenmore High School.

Dad was a self-taught man showing his children how to love, obey and to Trust in God. He wore many “hats” and he filled them all. At age 17, he enlisted in the Navy during WWII. He worked all his life as a self taught “Body and Frame” repairman, first for Hull Dobbs, then for DeRose Body and Fender and later owned Ralph’s Body & Frame.

Dad built his home in the Portage Lakes (New Franklin) where he raised his family. He loved boating, going to Cedar Point, picnics, water fights, playing pool, building additions to his children’s homes and being the boss at croquet. He was a serious man, but also enjoyed clowning around. He meant what he said and said what he meant. His motto was: “If you can’t afford to pay cash for it, you can’t afford it.” His favorite song was: “Lord it’s hard to be humble”. WE LOVE YOU DAD.

Ralph was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Dorothy; siblings, Gordon, Myrtle, twins Gertha and Gertrude, Jim, twins Daniel and Donna and Virgil.  He is survived by his children, Janit (Carl) Layne, Carol (Tom) Blose, Garry (Shelly) Smith, Craig (Kathy) Smith and Robert Smith;  grandchildren, Eric, Tiffannie, Jamison, Amanda, Adam, Brooke, Brittany, Julie, Bob, Ashley and Alison; great grandchildren, Brendan, Mikayla, Peyton, Destiny, Cora, Ellie, Ava, Mason, Miles, Jaxson and Jayden; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Arden Courts of Bath for making him a home for the past 4 plus years and for taking such loving care of him. As well as to Crossroads Hospice for their care.

A private family service has taken place. Entombment was at Northlawn Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Ralph’s name to The Chapel, Green Campus, 1800 Raber Road, Uniontown, Ohio 44685.  Please keep the entire Smith family in your thoughts during this difficult time by sharing a message or memory on our website at www.schermesserfh.com.

SCHERMESSER
(330) 899-9107
www.schermesserfh.com

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