Mr. Roger E. Smith, Sr.

Mr. Roger E. Smith, Sr., age 64, of New Hartford, passed away on Monday, January 10, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on July 2, 1946, Roger is the son of Robert H. and the late Jane (Dziok) Smith. Raised and educated in Utica, he was a graduate of Mohawk Valley Community College attaining a degree in Electrical Technology. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps. On January 24, 1970 he married the former Mary Lou Bailey with whom he shared 41 years; the happiness of their relationship was based on sincere love and enjoyment of one another. At one time, Roger held a position with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) as a foreman. More recently, he worked as a consumer representative and planner for the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation up until his retirement. Roger was a very caring, giving, and unselfish man. He always had a kind word for everyone, and he never complained throughout the duration of his illness. As a husband, he was a best friend to his wife, and the couple were inseparable. As a father, he was a best friend to his children with whom he shared a closeness and a tight bond, always participating in activities together. He enjoyed car cruisin’ with his son, Roger, Jr., and was a proud owner of a mustang, frequently attending auto shows. He was proud of his home and enjoyed gardening with his green thumb. Roger was an avid hockey fan, attending any game he could. He reestablished and coached the Greater Utica Youth Hockey League. He was a member of the Tappet Twirlers Auto Club, and member and past treasurer of the Gas Lighters. He was a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Roger is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; his sons, Roger E. Smith, Jr. at home, and David W. Smith and fiancée Theresa Lang of Clifton Park, NY; and his father, Robert H. Smith of GA. Survivors also include his sisters and brothers-in-law, Laura “Maybell” and Terry Sparks, and Linda and Leon Rhinehart, all of GA; his brother, Robert Smith of GA; his special niece and godchild, Lisa Marie Sowich; nieces, nephews, cousins, sister-in-law, Barbara Lynn Sowich, whom he loved as a sister; his father-in-law, Clarence Bailey, whom he loved as a father; and his friends, Richard Gigliotti, Jan Zabek, Donna and Eddie Warchol, Tom Morasco, John Temple, Joe Morasco, and all his car cruisin’ buddies. He was predeceased by his mother-in-law, Marie A. Bailey; his brother-in-law, Michael D. Sowich; and his faithful canine companion, Tara, whom he lovingly adored. The family extends sincere appreciation to Sister Sharon of Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center and Rev. Anthony P. LaFache, for their kindness, compassion, and spiritual guidance; thanks also to Dr. Charles Eldredge, Dr. Mark Blaker, and the nurses and staff of the ICU especially Vera, Brad, and Kim, for their constant care, vigilance, and professional guidance. Visitation will be held Thursday (today) from 5:00-8:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Roger’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Friday morning at 9:00 from the funeral home and at 10:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Anthony P. LaFache with Military Honors. Entombment will take place in Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Roger E. Smith, Sr.

July 2, 1946 - January 10, 2011