Larry Smith

Larry V. Smith, age 79, of Erie, passed away after a short illness on Friday, March 9, 2018 at Saint Vincent Hospital.  He was born in Detroit, MI on July 6, 1938, a son of the late Floyd E. and Juanita Kelly Smith. 

Larry lived most of his life in Erie, PA and was a graduate of the 1956 class of Academy High School.  He started in the family business, Automation Devices, at the age of 16.  Larry took over operation of the company after his Father’s passing.  He could still be found at his desk, every day, until his recent illness.

Larry was a member of the Erie Club, Erie Yacht Club, and Antique Automobile Club.  He was a Shriner and 32^nd degree Mason and a member of Church of the Cross.  Along with his wife Kathryn, he was instrumental in the building of the Smith Chapel at Penn State, Behrend College.  Larry could often be found attending auctions and was a collector of many things.  He enjoyed roller skating, boating, fishing and loved his breakfast clubs.

Larry was full of life and was a wonderful and loving husband and father.  He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and was always willing to lend a hand to his numerous friends and will be sorely missed.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Smith Willett.

Larry is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathryn Mehler Smith; his daughter, Colleen Smith and her companion, Brent, of McKean; his son, Kevin Smith and wife, Julie, of Lake City; grandchildren, Casey and Kristine May and Calvin and Evan Smith.  Larry is further survived by several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home, 3801 West 26^th St., Erie, on Wednesday, March 14th from 2 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and attend a funeral service at the Smith Chapel at Penn State Behrend, on Thursday, March 15^th at 11 a.m., with Reverend Drew Himes officiating.  Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Smith Scholarship Fund or the Larry V. and Kathryn A, Smith Chapel at Penn State Erie, Behrend College, 4215 Station Rd., Erie, PA  16563.

Send condolences at www.BurtonFuneralHome.com