Birtchel Smith, 74, Craneman

Birtchel was born September 16, 1932 in Pineville, KY and has been in the area since 1952.

He worked as a Craneman in the 3 Seemless Mill, retiring in 1988 after 38 years of service.

Birtchel was a member of St. Lad’s Club, Romanian Club and enjoyed playing with his grandchildren.

He is survived by son Ronnie Wayne Smith of Savannah, Ohio, Diane Lynn Sexton of Lorain, Lanaky Hall of Lorain, 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, brothers, Kurt Smith of MD, Thurman Smith of TN, Frank Smith of Lorain, sisters Lillie Collett of Lorain, Sue Fuget of KY, May Jones of KY, Elyven Grub of KY, Verda Frost of AL, Esclene Ellision of FL, Verda Frost of AL, and Esclene Ellision of FL.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Loudene Smith in November 2006 and parents Albert and Viloa Smith.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 08, 2007 from 5-9 p.m. at Reichlin-Cooley Funeral Home, 2920 Broadway, Lorain.

Funeral Services will be Friday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Rev. Jim Schaffer, Associate Pastor of Sheffield Church of God will officiate. Burial will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made to Kidney Foundation of Lorain County P.O. Box 1381 Elyria, OH 44035.