Ora Smith

CUTLER - Ora Lee Smith of Manteno, formerly of Cutler, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side March 23, 2013.

He was born May 25, 1925, in Denmark, to Albert and Irene (Moore) Smith.

Mr. Smith was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving during World War II in the South Pacific. He retired from truck driving in 1982.

He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Marcella (Helmers). They married Oct 28, 1943.

Other survivors include two children, (LaVanna) Cathy (George) Dorch of Manhattan, and Gary (special friend Lindy) Smith of Manteno; six grandchildren, Paula Cahan of Fort Charlotte, Fla., Buck (Annette) Dorch of New Lenox, Eric Dorch of Manhattan, Gary Dorch of San Jose, Calif., Shane (Terry) and Chad Smith of Joliet; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; brothers, John (Ruth) of Percy, Melvin (Alice), Kenny (Pat) and Bobby (Kathy) of Cutler and Samuel of Lenzburg; sisters, Patsy (Jerry) Briley of Cutler and Carolyn (Jim) Lively of Ava; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mildred Russel and Nelline Church; and brother, Albert (Jake) Smith.

Mr. Smith was a member of First Baptist Church in Cutler, and lifetime member of VFW in Chester.

He volunteered at Operation Mom's Cookies (Military Service of Men and Women), was an avid coin collector and enjoyed watching all sports. He was delighted to participate in the Chicago Honor Flight for World War II veterans going to Washington D.C. on July 11, 2012.

At Ora's request, cremation rites were accorded. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 20, in First Baptist Church in Cutler. Burial will be at 10 a.m. Friday, April 26, in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Kankakee Valley, 482 Main St. N.W., Bourbonnais, IL 60914 or Patriot Spirit, Box 212, Braidwood, IL 60408.