August 24, 1934 - June 16, 2022, aged 87
I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance.
2 Timothy 4:6-8
Dr. Hugh E. Smith, beloved father and husband, gifted and respected orthopedic surgeon, and Lt. Commander, U.S. Navy (Veteran) passed away on June 16, 2022. Dr. Smith joins in heaven his wife Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Smith (nee LeRoy, 1936 - 2020). Their four surviving children are Kathleen M., Hugh E., Jr., W. Bryan, and John F. Their family by marriage includes Marisa Smith (to son W. Bryan) and Darren Mulkey (to daughter Kathleen M.). Their lovely grandchildren include Lucas Smith, Daniel Mulkey, Kimberly Mulkey, Hugh Smith, V, and Kenzie Smith.
Dr. Smith was born to Hugh Edward (“Ed”) and Mary Louise Smith in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the oldest of 5 children, with siblings F. William (dec.), Robert, James (dec.), and Mary (“Molly”). Hugh lost his father early in life, but was blessed to help his mother with their family, and throughout her life until she passed at the age of 88.
Proud of his Jesuit education, Hugh attended St Ignatius High School and John Carroll University, and was accepted early into Loyola University’s Stritch School of Medicine. He completed his internship at St. Vincent Charity Hospital where he met his future wife, and love of his life, Mary Elizabeth Leroy. Hugh and Liz married on May 7, 1960 at Gesu Parish in Cleveland, Ohio.
With their desire for a new opportunity to start his medical practice and to raise their family, Hugh and Liz moved their family to California in 1964. Early in his career as an orthopedic surgeon, Hugh was called to serve in the U.S. Navy in Vietnam where he saved the lives and limbs of many U.S. Marines fighting on behalf of the United States. Upon his return to his family and career, he was quickly recognized among his peers for his passion for medicine. Hugh worked tirelessly at everything he did, whether for his family, practice, patients, or his many hobbies, including woodworking, skiing, cooking, and sailing and traveling with his wife Liz.
Hugh was also very proud of his Catholic faith and his love for God. Hugh’s and Liz’s countless charitable works with many organizations, including Glendora’s St. Vincent de Paul Ministry, will be remembered by many.
While he is greatly missed, Hugh is at eternal peace with God, his wife, his parents, and his family and friends who went before him.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Smith’s name may be made to Tunnel to Towers, a wonderful organization that builds and provides customized, mortgage-free houses to the families of fallen and injured heroes.
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