Much-loved father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Merle W. Smith, passed away Monday, Feb. 22, 2021. He lived a wonderful and full life, sharing many happy times with family and friends. Merle was one of the “lucky ones.” Always cheerful, always there to give good advice, always enjoyed life to the fullest.
Born in Lizton on April 2, 1930, he was the youngest of four children born to Norman and Mary (Blessing) Smith. He had two brothers, Norman and Robert, and one sister Arlene, all who preceded him in death.
He married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth “Libby” Luster on Oct. 7, 1950, and shared a wonderful life together until her death in 2004. After Merle’s military service in the Army, he returned to Crawfordsville, where he and Libby raised their two children. He worked for MidStates Steel & Wire for a short time, and later joined the Ben Hur Life Insurance Company, retiring in 1992. He and Libby spent many years wintering in Florida, was an active member at the Crawfordsville Country Club, and the family treasures the many woodworking projects Merle created over the years.
Survivors include: son Roger W. (Jean) Smith of Indianapolis and daughter Cheryl Smith of Crawfordsville; three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Family members knew Merle as “Uncle Putt” because of his great love of golfing.
Private funeral services for family are scheduled for Saturday afternoon at Oak Hill Cemetery North.
Hunt & Son Funeral Home is assisting the family and condolences may be left at www.huntandson.com and it will be live-streamed on Facebook.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Boys & Girls Club or the Animal Welfare League.
