George Peter Smith

George Peter Smith, age 89, passed away on May 10, 2023. George was born on July 20, 1933, in Toledo, Ohio to William and Helen Smith. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Jim and Tom, his sister Virginia, his daughter-in-law Karen Lea Smith, and his beloved granddaughter Courtney Lea Smith. He is survived by his wife of 66-years Jane Perry Smith, sons Gregory Peter Smith, David Perry Smith (Teri), and Bradley William Smith (Katherine); grandchildren Perry (PJ) Smith (Nikki), Evan Smith (Haleigh), Ethan Smith, Merritt Smith, Hallie (Kevin) Eble, and Alexa Rose; and three great-grandchildren. George graduated from Perrysburg High School in 1951 and Duke University in 1955, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi. Following Duke, he served in the U.S. Navy. George and Jane were married in 1956, and in 1958, George began his long career in the automotive business. He joined Midwestern VW Corp (later known as Midvo), which was the distributor for Volkswagon in the midwestern states. While with Midvo, he served as VP of Administration and Treasurer. In 1976, George moved to the retail side of the business, owning several dealerships throughout Ohio. Throughout his automotive career, George received both national and international achievement and leadership awards. George was an avid golfer and was proud to be a founding member of Muirfield Village Golf Club. He enjoyed many decades of golfing with his “Geezer” group and his sons. Worshiping at First Community Church was an important part of George’s life. Family, friends, and travel brought happiness to his life. George will be remembered for his ever-present smile and positive attitude. There were no “bad days.” In his later years, he was asked why he made daily trips to the grocery store. He replied, “Because I want to bring joy to someone’s life every day.” And he did! The family would like to thank the staff of Roxbury at First Community Village for their loving care during this past year. He always had a smile for them. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 26, at 11:00 a.m. at First Community Church, North, 3777 Dublin Road. Rev. Mary Kate Buchanan officiating. Family will greet guests at a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in George’s memory to First Community Village Foundation Sustaining Fund, 1800 Riverside Dr., Columbus, OH 43212 or Nationwide Children's Hospital Foundation, NICU, PO Box 16810, Columbus, OH 43216-6810.