Joe Smith's Obituary
Joe Smith, age 94 of Unionville, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 01, 2015 at the Oakwood Nursing and Rehab Center in Albia, Iowa.
He was born April 30, 1920 in Davis County, Iowa to Lester ""Pete"" and Charlotte Ruth (McGraw) Smith. Joe married Dorothy Lockman on September 4, 1948. Joe enlisted in the United States Army on April 30, 1942. He served his country faithfully during World War II in the Southern France Campaign; Rhineland Campaign. His bravery earned him numerous military honors, including the European-African-Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon with two bronze campaign stars, as well as the ribbon of occupation. Joe was honorably discharged from the Army on October 20, 1945 at Fort Custer, Michigan.
Joe spent much of his adult life working the family farm north of Unionville, Iowa. At one point in time, Joe was farming nearly 2,200 acres of land, which included row crop, haying, as well as raising cattle and sheep.
Joe had several hobbies when time allowed him the opportunity. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, including hunting, trapping, fishing and gardening. He also loved going to sale barns throughout Iowa and Northern Missouri. Joe never missed an opportunity to bid against others. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also enjoyed many friendships with countless people throughout his life. Joe never met a stranger. Furthermore, he was always there to lend a hand to others in need. Joe spent twelve years transporting the Amish to many locations.
He was a long standing member of the Unionville American Legion.
Joe is survived by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Smith of Unionville, Iowa; four children, Beverly Babbitt of Unionville, Iowa, Sandra Snow of Unionville, Iowa, Larry Smith of Unionville, Iowa and Billy Joe (Crystal) Smith of Centerville, Iowa; eight grandchildren, Micki, Shane, Joey, Jason, Travis, Traci, Darrick and Jamie; two step-grandchildren, Shane and Brandy; twenty three great grandchildren; and five great, great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Leona Shuck; and a son-in-law, Robert Babbitt.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at Lange Funeral Home in Moravia with Reverend Lloyd Johnston officiating. Burial with military rites will be held in the Taylor Cemetery, east of Unionville, Iowa. A visitation will begin on Tuesday at the funeral home in Moravia from 10 AM until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made out to the Taylor Cemetery and given to Lange Funeral Home, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa. Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.
Visitation
January 06, 2015 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Lange Funeral Home 103 North Johns St. Moravia, IA (641) 724-3413
Funeral Service
January 06, 2015 11:00 AM
Lange Funeral Home 103 North Johns St. Moravia, IA (641) 724-3413
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