Calvert L. “The Chief” Smith, 80, of Derry, Pa a lifetime resident of the small community of Hillside passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 2, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.
He was the son of Albert C. and Marian “Burns” Smith, born September 25, 1945 in Latrobe, PA.
He was a member of the St. Josephs Catholic Church of Derry and former president of the Derry Lions Club.
Calvert graduated from Derry High School in 1958 and attended Robert Morris College. He served in the Army National Guard, Ligonier, PA as Tank Commander, 103rd Armor Division from 1963-1969, followed by two years in the Army Reserves.
He worked for Smith Lime & Stone, was president and CEO of Smith Blacktop Paving, Inc. for 50 years. Later he was the co-founder of the Smith Blacktop Paving, Inc. with his father Albert Smith. After his father’s passing in 1991 he then headed the company with his son, Skip, at his side.
His greatest passions in life were the paving industry and his family. His work ethic, kind heart along with his love of snacks will be what we remember the most. He mentored many lives over the years especially the former crew members of Smith Blacktop Paving, Inc. They were and will always be fond to him.
Surviving is his loving wife of 55 years, Joyce M. (Pavick) Smith whom he married January 8, 1966, son, Calvert (Skip) Smith II and his wife Cheryl, two granddaughters Skye Smith and Maia Layne Smith, a sister, Marion Optaka, two sisters-in-law Colleen Klimchak (Ron) and Diana Pavick, two nieces, Kim Metzgar (Tom) and Robin Fischer (John), a nephew, Justin Klimchak (Bridget), two great nephews Tyler Reed & Jack, a great niece, Jenna and numerous cousins, friends and neighbors, Ben and Christina Horwat.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by father-in-law and mother-in-law, Andrew C. and Mary M. Pavick, two brothers-in-law, Robert A. Pavick and Ronald J. Opatka, and a niece, Jacqueline Reed Opatka.
Special thank you to Excela Hospice Care Team, Jody, Melissa J., Melissa T., Betsy, Lori, Gillian, Jenny and Sharon.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 5th from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc. 49 N. Walnut Street, Blairsville. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 6th at 11 AM at the funeral home with Fr. Stephen West, officiating.
Interment will be in Coles Cemetery, Derry.
Military services will be accorded by Blairsville VFW Post #5821 and the American Legion Post #0407.
To view the online obituary, sign the guest registry, or send condolences visit www.shoemakerfamilyservivces.com.
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