Gary Lee Smittle

Gary Lee Smittle was born on October 20, 1945, in Springfield, Ohio, to Juanita (Riley) Smittle and Carl Cecil Smittle. He spent his life devoted to education, family, faith, and the many communities he served with dedication and care. Gary was the beloved husband of Linda Dianne Smittle, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Their love story began early in life-Gary met Linda when they were both just thirteen years old, a bond that grew into a lifetime together. He was preceded in death by his parents, Juanita (Riley) Smittle and Carl Cecil Smittle; his in-laws, Alexander and Bettie Neff; his brother, Carl Smittle; and his niece, Amy Smittle. Gary is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his children, Kim (Wes) Arnott and Tracy (Greg) Szott; and his grandchildren, Zack, Sam, McKenna, Regan, and Rylee. He is also survived by his sister, Cathy (Smittle) Clark-Potts (Charles); his sisters-in-law, Becky Smittle and Cheryl Everhart (Doug); many nieces and nephews, and close friends. Gary earned his bachelor's degree from Earlham College and his master's degree from Xavier University. He dedicated his career to education, leaving a lasting impact as a teacher, coach, mentor, and leader. He was a member of New Moorefield Methodist Church and served as President of the Groveport Madison Teachers Association. He was also a member of the Central Ohio Baseball Coaches Association, the Eagles Club, Union Club, and the Elks Club (Lodge 51).

Throughout his career, Gary received numerous honors and accolades. Among them were the Ohio Baseball Coaches Association Award for 200 career victories, the Cruiser Award for service to the school district, induction into the Central District Baseball Hall of Fame, induction into the GMHS Cruiser Hall of Fame in 2016, and the LaVonne M. Muessig Award for Distinguished Teaching. He also coached multiple OCC and CBC championship football and baseball teams, leaving a legacy of excellence both on and off the field.

Additionally, Gary enjoyed helping run the clock and keep the books for Capital University and GMHS basketball games. He was also affectionately known as the self-appointed GMHS cheerleaders' trainer-a role many would say Linda appointed for him. Gary enjoyed many hobbies, especially baseball cards, model trains, fantasy baseball, and fantasy football. He had a lifelong love of sports and competition and even won his final football pool just weeks before his passing, picking winning teams all the way to the end. Known for his humor and life lessons, Gary once sold a used lawn mower to his daughter that broke immediately after one use. His response-

"buyer beware" -became a family joke he was teased about for years. He was also once part-owner of a racehorse and, earlier in life, was scouted by the St. Louis Cardinals.Above all else, Gary will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator,

coach, and friend. His influence, kindness, and quiet strength will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. Visitation will be held from 5 - 8 pm on Monday, December 29 at MYERS WOODYARD 587 Main St. Groveport, Ohio 43125 where the services will take place on Tuesday at 11 am. Interment Groveport Cemetery. Pastor Clark Hess officiating.