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In Memory

Arthur Edgar Smith - Class Of 1936 VIEW PROFILE

Arthur Edgar Smith

ARTHUR E. SMITH

Arthur E. Smith, 97, of Wesley Manor, in Frankfort, passed away on September 12, 2015 at St. Vincent Frankfort Hospital. His sudden and unexpected death was the result of a fall near his residence. Born March 25, 1918 in Elkhart, IN, he is the son of Arthur E. Smith Sr. & Grace E. (Shelmadine) Smith.

Mr. Smith graduated from South Bend Central High School in 1936 and Indiana University in 1940 with a degree in business. He married Dorothy P. Silverthorn of Rossville in 1941, and she preceded him in death in 2001.

Always interested in cars, Art joined Jordan Motors as a sales representative in South Bend. In 1952 he bought a Studebaker dealership, later Lincoln-Mercury, in Frankfort, which was named Art Smith Motors. He retired from the automobile business in 1978. Art and Dorothy lived in Rossville and Punta Gorda, Florida before moving to Wesley Manor Village in 1998. Art was a "founding father" of Wesley Manor. During the construction and design of the Manor, he served on the Board of Directors and as Treasurer. He was also a member of several organizations including Kiwanis Club. Art was a talented musician, playing drums and jazz piano. He played piano in college and with local bands and later, entertained Manor residents. Besides music, he was skilled in carpentry and architecture. Always health conscious, he enjoyed jogging, bike riding and walking. His real gift was his outgoing personality. He spoke to everyone, ever friendly and conversational. His mind and memory was sharp to the very end of life.

He is survived by a son, Randall S. Smith of rural Rossville and twin daughters, Carole A. Ferris and Barbara D. Strong, both of Frankfort. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

A "Celebration of Life" will take place at Wesley Manor Social Center from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2015. A headstone in the Rossville Cemetery will commemorate his life. Those wishing to donate in memory of Art, may give to The Friends of Wesley Manor, envelopes will be available. The family has entrusted Goodwin Funeral Home with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at goodwinfuneralhome.com.

Published by Journal & Courier on Sep. 16, 2015.

03/02/2023 EJS



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