John Andrew Smith, 87, of Ontario, a former Baker City resident, died July 11, 2003, at his daughter’s home, surrounded by his family
His graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Mount Hope Cemetery.
John was born Sept. 9, 1915, at Salt Lake City to Ellen and Robert Smith. He was raised there until he entered the Civilian Conservation Corps at the age of 19. For the next several years he was employed as a general laborer.
John served during World War II in the Merchant Marines (Coast Guard) and was honorably discharged in June of 1944.
John met a nurse, Selma Judi, and they were married at Price, Utah, in 1948. Together they raised one daughter, Claudia.
He was employed all of his life in general labor, construction and as a warehouseman. He worked for Ellingson’s Lumber Co. until he retired around 1980.
Recently, John enjoyed music and his family in Ontario. Prior to his decline in health he was an avid walker and rode his two-wheeled bike daily up until the age of 86.
Survivors include his daughter, Claudia Wickert and her husband, Dale, of Ontario; grandson, Brian Wickert of Vale; granddaughter, Lisa Wise and her husband, Jay, of Ontario; sister, Mildred “Mickey” Howell of Woodinville, Wash.; a nephew, Ted Howell, and family also of Woodinville, Wash.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 25 years, Selma; a younger brother, Walt; a half brother, George Terry; and his companion of 21 years, Camille Marr.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Friends of XL Hospice Inc., 2480 Highway 52, Payette, Idaho, 83661.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ontario’s Lienkaemper Chapel.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, July 23, 2003
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor