Calvin L. Smith

Calvin Lester Smith, age 90, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2016. He was born in Frozen Run, WV in the winter of 1925 to his parents, Spurgeon and Enid (Cooper) Smith. Calvin is preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife Pauline; daughters, Jeanie Moore and Kimberly Smith; and brothers, Emmons Smith and John Smith. Calvin will be lovingly remembered by his son, Billy (Terry) Smith; daughters, Roberta Simmons and Claudia (Jim) Arkesteyn; eleven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; brothers, Richard, Lowell, and Jack; sisters, Ruby, Patricia, and Dormal; many nieces and nephews. Calvin served his country proudly during WW II in the U.S. Army. His bravery earned him a Bronze Star and the Eastern Theater Ribbon for his heroic actions while in battle in Europe. He was a part of the 99th Division Infantry and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, Calvin married the love of his life, Pauline Patricia Miller. They started a wonderful life together which brought them five children. Calvin was an outdoorsman and loved fishing and hunting. Another passion of his was gardening. His roses were a splendid wonder! He later retired from General Motors after a long career. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 10, 2016 at 10:00 am at Meadowlark Assisted Living (65 Ida Red, Sparta, MI 49345). Please consider making a memorial contribution in Calvin's name to Emmanuel Hospice (2161 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504).