Bert W. Smith

Bert W. Smith, 94, of Springfield, passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2025, surrounded by his family at the Erie VA Medical Center.

He was born in Wesleyville on February 8, 1931, a son of the late Clarence E. and Bernice H. (Bronson) Smith.

Bert grew up quickly, taking on responsibility for his family after losing his father at an early age. His work ethic began in local shops until he enlisted in the United States Army. He attained the rank of Sergeant and proudly served with the 5015th Detachment of Headquarters at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. Following his honorable discharge, he returned home and eventually settled in Erie, where he worked in various trades, always with his hands, to provide for his family and proudly served in the Marine Reserves. He spent many years learning and refining his skills in HVAC and, in 1978, founded Smith Heating and Cooling. He remained self-employed in the business until the age of 92, creating not only a career but also many lifelong friendships along the way.

Bert was a man who never stopped improving upon what was in front of him—whether it was a job, his home, or his backyard. He enjoyed hunting in the mountains during his youth, fishing native trout with family, and recalling those trips with laughter for years to come. For more than 50 years, he enjoyed Mail Pouch Chewing Tobacco. He also cherished mornings spent over coffee with friends, a routine he greatly valued. A voracious reader, he especially enjoyed westerns, and he was a lifelong admirer of “the Duke,” John Wayne.

Community was important to Bert. He helped organize one of the first parades in Millcreek, was a life member of the Girard American Legion Post #494, and a past member of the West Ridge Fire Department. In the summers, he found joy in his garden. He was also a member of the Oath Keepers.

In addition to his parents, Bert was preceded in death by his sisters, Alice Freedline and Mary Grahn; his brother, Roy Smith; his daughter-in-law, Valerie Smith; and his son-in-law, Keith O’Baker.

He will be deeply missed by his family, including his wife, Judy Smith, whom he married on April 5, 1995; daughters, Cynthia Repoff (Samuel) and Pamela O’Baker; son, David Smith; step-sons, John Stemple (Beverly), Jeff Stemple, and Ted Hemstreet (Stacy); step-daughter Peggy Crowe (Terry); sister, Iva Daire; brother, Paul Smith (Sally); grandchildren, Holly Marucci, Todd Repoff, Jacob O’Baker, Forrest Smith, and Miranda Smith; as well as numerous step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He will also be fondly remembered by his two long-time friends, Don and Leroy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Erie VA Medical Center, 135 E. 38th St. Boulevard, Erie, PA 16504, or to the West County Paramedic Associates, 6852 Meadville Rd., Girard, PA 16417.

Friends may call on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Edder Family Funeral Home, LLC, 309 Main St. E., Girard. A funeral service will be held there the following day, Wednesday, at 10:00 a.m., with full military honors to follow.

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