Paul E. Smithberger, age 91, of Marion, went to be with his Savior on Thursday morning, June 27, 2013 at the Marion General Hospital.
Paul was born on February 16, 1922 on a farm in south eastern Lebanon in Monroe County Ohio. He was the son of Clemens Paul and Elizabeth Theresa (Arnold) Smithberger. Paul grew up learning the value of hard work and his parents taught him to treat people with kindness and respect.
On October 27, 1943, Paul was united in marriage to Melba Bessie Blowers in Bethesda, Ohio.
Paul had a magnetic personality that simply drew people to him. Everyone that met him was mesmerized by his humbleness and selfless character. He was a giver of his time, talent and wisdom and he had a generous and genuine spirit. He always had a positive personality and could make everyone laugh, smile and feel good. For those who had the privilege to call Paul a father, grandfather, uncle or friend will know that their life was changed because they knew him.
Paul was a devoted worker, operating heavy equipment as an Operating Engineer. He was sought after by employers for project after project because he was the best, although he would most likely deny that claim.
He enjoyed trips to Florida to visit family and up until a couple of years ago, he would drive straight through. He also enjoyed working puzzles and being of service to anyone who might need a helping hand. But what Paul valued most were relationships. Time spent with his family and friends was worth far more than gold and those times spent and relationships were cherished by Paul.
He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers for over 60 years. He was also a member of the Cornerstone Alliance Church.
He will be dearly missed by his children: Gene (Patty) Smithberger and Janice (Tom) Kimmel; Grandchildren: Brian Smithberger, Steve Smithberger, Philip Kimmel, Elizabeth (Michael) Grandy, Kimberly (Bill) Guthrie, Karri (Mark) Lare, Sean Kinser and Katherine (Chad) Farley; Great grandchildren: Franklin Smithberger, Jillian Kimmel, Stephanie Perpish, Tyler Guthrie, Casey Guthrie, Bryce Guthrie, Jaquie Kinser, Michaela Kinser, Michael Ricker, Ray, Zachary and Corey Kinser; Great great grandchildren: Jacob Paul Grandy and Tucker Dale Burns; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Melba Bessie Smithberger; Siblings: Ralph and Harold (Alfreda) Smithberger and a great granddaughter Marlana Kinser.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 30, 2013 at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 East Center St., Marion from 3PM to 6PM; Graveside services will be held on Monday at the North Lawn Cemetery, 4927 North Cleveland Avenue NW, Canton, Ohio at 1PM.
The family would like to thank the nursing staff and doctors of Marion General Hospital for their kindness, excellent care and the love they gave to Paul and his family. You are much appreciated.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion is honored to have been chosen to serve Paul’s family and your private condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
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