John L. Smith

John L. Smith, 74, of Dover, died Tuesday morning, February 12, 2013 at his home following a courageous battle with COPD.

A son of the late Thomas H. and Ethel (Solley) Smith Grinder, John was born May 6, 1938 at Beach City, Ohio.

John enjoyed shooting pool, fishing, camping and playing Texas Hold’em on the weekends with his family.

He is survived by his children, Vickie (Ronald) Eberly of Dundee, Johnny L. & William Smith of New Philadelphia, Kevin (Loretta) Smith of New Philadelphia, Ronald Smith of Dover, Larry (Beth) Smith of Florida, Holly Sommers of New Philadelphia and Donald “Weeble” Smith of Dover; his long time friend, Carol Amistadi; 23 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and three sisters, Barbara, Sandy and Sally.

John was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bernice Welsch; three brothers, Thomas, James L.D. and Ronald Smith; three grandchildren, Kristen Brown, Johnny Smith and Dylon Sommers and two great grandchildren, Kiean Smith and Machi Pope.

In keeping with John’s wishes, services will be private and cremation will take place through the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory at Dover.

The family requests memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Avenue SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.