Fred W. Smith

Fred Smith passed away on March 3rd , 2026, following several weeks of declining health.

Fred was a lifelong resident of Dalton, Ohio, and of Pleasant View Mennonite Church. He graduated from Dalton HS in 1957 and married Viola Singer in October of 1958.

He was one of the first employees hired at Horst Manufacturing, having been recruited by Jim Horst when Jim founded the Company in 1963, and he worked there for 45 years before retiring at 65. Not being satisfied with a 45-year career, he embarked ­­­­on an almost 20-year assignment at MCC in Kidron as a volunteer, where he was the subject matter expert on anything and everything electrical. He was very proud of the work he did there and always boasted about his perfect attendance at his "volunteer" job.

Fred was proceeded in death by his parents, Elmer and Zada (Snurr) Smith; and by a brother, Jim Smith. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Vi; sons Jeff (Robin) Smith and Terry Smith; an adopted daughter Lorraine (Don) Kirbawy; a sister Karen Roberts; a brother Ken Smith; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, March 21st with calling hours starting at 10 am, followed by a brief service at 11 am, at Auble Funeral Home, 512 E. Oak St., Orrville, for friends and family to gather and share in a celebration of life.

Memorial donations in his honor can be made to MCC Connections, 4080 Kidron Road, Kidron, OH 44636.

May his memory be a blessing.