Jerry E. Smith

Des Moines

Jerry E. Smith, 80, passed away peacefully Monday, June 30, 2014. Jerry was born in Des Moines, IA to James and Lucille (Tindle) Smith and lived in the Des Moines area for most of his life. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1952 and soon after enlisted in the United States Army. He then went to work for Northwestern Bell which became his life long career. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America and retired in 1986. He was also a member of the Za-Ga-Zig Shrine for several years serving in both the Guard of Honor and Divian units.

Jerry became an avid golfer in his teen years and golf continued to be his passion throughout his life. His love of music was sparked at an early age by his dad who played electric steel. Jerry played guitar and was the front man for “The Country Squires” for many years. He enjoyed fishing in northern Minnesota and took many vacations to that area. Jerry was well known for his wit and sarcasm; he was a fun-loving guy who was always ready with a smile and a joke.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving companion, Mary Smith; four children, Kathleen Smith-Carper of Indianola, Mike Smith and wife Julie of Urbandale, Patrick Smith and wife Kelly of Indianola, and Karen Schnathorst and husband Carl of Indianola; ten grandchildren, Tiffany Fink, Josh Kellow, Cory Kellow, Kristen Smith, Jason Smith and wife Abby, Cody Smith, Austin Smith and wife Amanda, Carl Schnathorst Jr and wife Danielle, Caleb Schnathorst and Cheyenne Schnathorst; ten great-grandchildren; a brother, Ken Smith and wife Sharon of Harrison, MI; and sister-in-law, Flo Smith of Long Beach, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lucille; and a brother, Bobby Smith.

The family would like to extend a word of thanks for all the staff of UnityPoint Hospice for the loving care that was given to Jerry in the final months of his life.

Services will be held 11 a.m. Thursday at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines with burial at Resthaven Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.