Obituary of George M. Smith

Of Clio, formerly of Vassar, age 90, died Monday, November 25, 2013 at Olive Branch Assisted Living in Perry, Michigan. The funeral service will take place 2:30pm, Saturday, November 30, 2013 at the Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Reverend Monica M. Villarreal. In accordance with Mr. Smith's wishes, cremation will take place following the service. George's family will be present at the funeral home to receive friends on Saturday from 12:30pm until the time of service at 2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Lutheran Church or Mt. Morris Masonic Lodge #535. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. George was born November 15, 1923 in Clio, the son of Mr. and Mrs. George and Carol (Conlee) Smith. He and Marguerite Kingsley were united in marriage in 1948. She preceded him in death in 1953. Elsie (Johnson) Beito and George would be united in marriage on July 30, 1954. In 1943, George would heed the call of his country and enlist in the US Army, serving during World War II in the Pacific Theater. In 1953, he began work with General Motors at Ternstedt, where he was the Committee Man for many years, prior to retiring as a Set Up man in the early 1980's. During this time he was a member of UAW Local #326. George was also a member of Salem Lutheran Church in Flint and a Life Member of the Mt. Morris Masonic Lodge #535. After retirement, George's passion was playing softball. He played on a local league in the Flint area, as well as a league in Florida. He was also on Team Tremont, a national softball league for seniors, playing around the US and he won 5 national titles with them. George and Elsie also enjoyed many years wintering in Lake Worth, Florida. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 59 years, Elsie (Johnson) Smith, children, Susan Shimmons, Michael Beito and wife Diane, Gary Smith, SuEllen Salim and husband Dennis, Melissa Martin and husband Tom, grandchildren, Christina Como, Amy Shimmons, Sarah Martin, Stephen Martin, brothers and sisters, Bevin "Bud" Smith, Glenore Creel, Carol Vickers, brother-in-law, Norris Saugsted, and several nieces and nephews. George was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Marguerite, daughter, Lynette Smith, son, Phillip Beito, five sisters, Irene Bennett, Lorraine Empey, Evelyn Saugsted, Norine Smith & Louise Smith and two brothers, Jack Smith, Louis Smith.