Clarence E. Smoyer

Clarence E. Smoyer
Clarence E. Smoyer, 99, of Allentown, and formerly of Lehighton, passed away at home on Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. He was the husband of the late Melba (Whitehead) Smoyer, who died in 2017.
Born on June 25, 1923, in Parryville, he was a son of the late Isreal and Elizabeth Jane (Blew) Smoyer.
Clarence was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving from 1943-45, as a tank gunner with the 3rd Armored Division, 32nd Regiment.
On March 6, 1945, Clarence and the tank crew defeated a feared German Panther Tank in the key battle of Cologne, and with the passage of time, Clarence became known as the "Hero of Cologne".
Clarence received a Purple Heart, French Medialle de la Legion d' Honnear, European Middle-Eastern Medal, Army Occupation Medal and in 2019 he received a Bronze Star with Valor at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Clarence became well known after his story was told in the bestselling book, "Spearhead," written by Adam Makos and movie by Jim Bates.
Following the war, Clarence worked as a plant supervisor for Waylite in Bethlehem for 40 years, retiring in 1983.
He was of Lutheran faith, attending the former St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Weissport for many years.
Clarence was a member of the Lehighton American Legion Post 314, was an avid bowler, loved roller skating, swimming and square dancing with his late wife Melba.
He is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Buervenich and Patricia Fischer, of Allentown; four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his son, Barry; brothers, Walter and Franklin; and sister, Virginia Donner.
Service: A funeral service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 6, at 11 a.m. in the Schaeffer Funeral Home, 3rd & Alum Sts., Lehighton, with Rev. Anthony Pagotto officiating. Committal service to follow at Lehighton Cemetery with full military honors under the direction of the U.S Army and the Lehighton UVO. A calling will be held prior to the service from 9:30-11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lehighton American Legion Post 381, Bridge St., Lehighton, PA 18235; or V.F.W., 1110 S. Front St., Allentown, PA 18103.
The Schaeffer Funeral Home, Lehighton, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.schaefferfunerals.com.