Paul Edsel Smith

1929 - 2010

Paul Edsel Smith 1929 - 2010 Paul Edsel Smith was born on December 7, 1929 in Paden, OK, and left the world suddenly on November 26, 2010. Papa, as he was known by family, was born to goodly parents, Calvin and Mary Smith. From a young age, Papa's parents instilled in him a strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life. After moving from Oklahoma with his parents and siblings in 1942, he dug potatoes and picked cotton in Edison, California and slept in a tent with a dirt floor. From those humble beginnings, Papa learned to value even the simplest things in life and gained an appreciation for hard work. After a short time in Edison, Papa and his family moved to Tehachapi, where he has resided ever since. His work continued there and at age 14, he created a fake driver's license in order to get a job driving trucks at the quarry. His ambition led him not just to work but to education. In 1947, Papa was the first of three generations to graduate from Tehachapi High School and later in life received a degree in chemical analysis. While his accomplishments brought him a measure of pride, there was nothing more valuable to Papa than his family. In 1947, he married his beautiful wife of 63 years, Mary Ellen Steelman. Together, they shared a journey through life that is an inspiration to all those who know them. In addition to their love for each other, they were blessed with two children, Dennis Duel and Linda Sue. Papa was a committed father and husband whose greatest joy was always found in his family. When he wasn't caring for his family, Papa worked much of his life at Monolith Cement Company. He retired from his position as a physical tester in December 1985 after 37 years of service. Papa also served the community as a member of the Masonic Lodge in Tehachapi for 50 years where he was active in every facet of the organization. He loved being a Mason, played golf at every opportunity and found great pleasure in fishing, camping and hunting, which he always did with his beloved family. Papa is survived by his wife, Mary; brother, James Smith; sister, Calleen Wonacott; daughter, Linda; son, Dennis and wife Kandi; grandchildren, Aaron and wife Sarah, Mandi and husband Chris, and Shelli and husband Robert; four great grandchildren, Garrett, Peyton, Lily and Gavin, all of whom he adored. There are few words with enough passion and feeling to describe his kindness, his generosity, his integrity, his constant smile and his commitment to his family. In his own words, he said "I'm happy. I've lived a good life." He has indeed lived a great life and will be sorely missed. A funeral service will be held in his honor at 11:00 a.m., Friday, Dec. 3, at the First Baptist Church, 1049 Curry St., in Tehachapi. For those wishing to say their goodbyes, a visitation will also be held prior to the service, in the same location, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A graveside service will follow the funeral service and will be held at Eastside Cemetery in Tehachapi. Wood Family Funeral Service www.bakersfield.com/obits