J. Smith

J. LERCH SMITH J. Lerch Smith, 94, of Neodesha, Kansas passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at the Golden Keys Nursing Center in Neodesha, Kansas. Lerch was born January 19, 1913 in Neodesha, Kansas to J. M. Smith and Emma Lerch Smith. He was raised and educated in Neodesha, graduating from Neodesha High School in 1931. Following high school, he attended Independence Junior College. Lerch married Ethel May Tyler on November 24, 1935. They made their home in Neodesha where he worked for Standard Oil as a lab technician until the refinery closed in 1970 and he worked for Kimbal Electric until his retirement in 1975. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Neodesha. He was preceded in death by his wife Ethel on August 12, 2005. Lerch is survived by one son, Kenny Smith and his wife, Shirley of Independence, Kansas; one sister, Sue Mackiewicz of Olathe, Kansas; three grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and three great great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents; one grandson; and one great grandson. Visitation hours for Lerch will be from 8:00 a.m., to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 20, 2007 at the Penwell-Gabel Loran Fawcett Chapel, Neodesha, Kansas. Graveside services for J. Lerch Smith will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 20, 2007 at the Neodesha City Cemetery with Reverend Marcie Campbell of the First Presbyterian Church officiating. The family has suggested memorial contributions to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice. Memorials may be left with the funeral home. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabel.com.