Adam B. Smelser

ARENDTSVILLE The Lord blessed us with our eldest son, Adam Brent Smelser, on Nov. 4, 1988. He was called Home on Nov. 17, 2013, while swimming in the Barren River in Bowling Green, Ky. Adam was a joy to his parents, Scott and Bertina Smelser of Arendtsville. He was a beloved brother to his siblings, Tim and April (Smelser) Starr of Boston Mass., Brianne, Tabitha, Zachary, and Lukas Smelser of Arendtsville; and nieces, Leila and Evangelene Starr. He is survived by his grandparents, Dale Smelser of Bowie, Md., and Tom and Betty Gowen of Foley Ala.; as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins. Those who knew Adam knew of his zeal for God and his goodness to others. Independent and adventurous, he worked in Alaska and slept in the woods, then moved to Texas where he lived in a garage without heat or air conditioning. He made his furniture from scrap lumber. He worked hard and lived frugally, with zest and appreciation for small things. His apartment held a few gifts from his family, a letter from his sister Brianne, his song book, Bible, school books, running shoes, harmonicas and guitar. He enjoyed painting, sewing, and exercise. He was a strong young man, and kept himself fit. He was excited to pursue a doctoral degree in Industrial Occupational Psychology. While Adam did not finish some of his earthly goals, his chief goal was to seek the kingdom of God. Rejoice in that for him. We wish we could tell him how much we admire him, to see what else this courageous and talented young man would do with his life. Many prayers have been offered this past week for Adam's safety, but we gratefully realize that God has already saved Adam! We are grateful for the search teams and volunteers of Barren, Butler, and Muhlenberg Counties (KY), in particular the Warren County Rescue Department, who sacrificed numerous hours searching for Adam. To those who offered support and countless prayers on his behalf, we thank you. A visitation will be held on Monday, Nov. 25, 2013 at 5 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 6 p.m. at the Wyndham Gettysburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Adam Smelser Endowed Scholarship Fund at Florida College, Temple Terrace, FL (www.floridacollege.edu/adamsmelser/).