Larry Smith

Larry was born on Saturday, September 3, 1938, in Elwood, Indiana to Robert and Mildred (Marley) Smith. He spent most of his childhood in Elwood before his parents moved to Frankton, Indiana in 1954. During high school, Larry worked part-time at Continental Can Company in Elwood. He graduated from Frankton High School in 1956 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp in July 1956 where he served active duty for two years followed by inactive duty through July 1962.

After completing active duty in the U.S. Marine Corp, he worked for two years at Delco Remy. He met his wife, Diane, in late 1958 and their first date was a basketball game at Frankton High School. They were married on Saturday, April 2, 1960, at Frankton Christian Church.

In November 1960, he began working as a parts runner at Fred Welker Ford in Anderson. While working at the dealership, he also attended and graduated from Commercial Trades Institute of Auto Mechanics. His hard work and dedication led to a successful career with Ford dealerships located in Anderson, Muncie, and New Castle. He attended several Ford Parts and Service Management and Warranty Administration classes and quickly advanced to Parts and Service Manager. Larry won multiple sales and service awards throughout his career including a trip for him and Diane to the Bahamas.

In addition to being a dedicated husband and father, Larry enjoyed several hobbies. He was a member of Maplewood Golf Course for more than 45 years and a metal detecting enthusiast for over 50 years. He belonged to two Metal Detector clubs and three Coin clubs in Anderson, Marion, and Muncie. Larry also delighted in finding “treasures” at yard sales and then selling his finds on eBay. In his earlier years, Larry also enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, attending rock concerts, and restoring his Ford Model A. He has been an avid Chicago Cubs fan since he was young and was so happy when the Cubs won the World Series in 2016.

Larry is survived by his devoted bride of 63 years, Diane (Gillespie) Smith; two loving daughters, Angela (Gary) Franklin of Canton, Georgia, and Melanie (Brian) Schwer of Liberty Township, Ohio; and five grandchildren,Cassondra (Eric) Franklin-Moore, Zachary Franklin, Nathan Schwer, Emma Schwer, and Owen Schwer. He is also survived by one brother, John (Pat) Smith of Mesa, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings, Ronald, Dennis, Edward, Randy, and Marcheta.

Calling hours will be 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home with a memorial service to follow. Family and Friends, please come and share your favorite memories of Larry. Burial with Military rites will follow at Elm Ridge Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Larry’s honor to Wounded Warriors or the American Cancer Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com.