Tribute

Edward Leland Smith, known to all as "Ed," passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, at the age of 75. Ed was a beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather "Gpa", Brother, Uncle, and Friend who left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. It didn't take a lot to make Ed happy in this life - an antique car show, a good meal out, a connection over conversation, and an ice-cold Pepsi were among the simple things that brought him joy. Ed’s history as a military veteran was a point of pride for him. Ed proudly served his country as a Medical Corpsman in the U.S. Navy. He was on active duty from 1969 to 1971 and continued to serve in the reserves until 1974. He recently had the opportunity to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. which was a memory he’d never forget. Ed was married to the love of his life, Marie Elaine Ritthaler, for 52 years, a testament to the power of love and mutual support. For his career, Ed worked on the assembly line at Caterpillar for thirty years. Ed's mischievous spark of humor, his willingness to help anyone in need, and his profound love for his family will be what people remember most about him. After his passing, Ed’s family gathered at a favorite local restaurant for a celebration of life where those present engaged in fellowship and toasted in his honor with glasses of Pepsi. It was a celebration that Ed would have loved.

Friends & Family

Ed is survived by his wife Marie Ritthaler Smith, three daughters and their spouses Joy (Shannon) Duling, Shelly (Donald) Montgomery, and Misty (Brant) Turnbull, six treasured grandchildren Alyssa Watt, Corbin Turnbull, Avery (Rayyan) Aldossary, MacKenzie (Robert) Siebert, Brooke Montgomery, and Khaiden Turnbull, his precious great granddaughter Jettlynn Turnbull, and honorary great granddaughter Kaylynn Gerard, sisters Shirley Stewart, Frieda Dotson, and Patricia Edwards, and brothers Gene Smith and Thomas Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers David Smith, Wayne Smith, Ronald Smith, Marvin Smith and sisters Joan Norwood, Kathyleen Smith, Linda Horsley, and Diane Belcher, and honorary grandson Jeff Gerard.