James F. Smith, 85, U.S. Army Veteran

He was born November 26, 1935 in Elyria and had resided in Lorain since 1963.

Jim graduated from Elyria Catholic High School where he played basketball and then served with the US Army in a tank battalion during the Korean War.

He worked as a Sheetmetal Worker for Sheetmetal Workers Local # 33 retiring in 1997 after 40 years. Prior to that, he worked at AMSHIP in Lorain.

Jim was a fan of Elyria Catholic High School basketball attending their games regularly and supporting ECHS athletic boosters and alumni. He enjoyed watching his grandson James play sports at St Peter School and ECHS. An avid fisherman, Jim enjoyed family fish fries and always had enough fish to last through the Lenten season. He enjoyed being with his family, playing cards, golfing, bowling and gardening. He was an avid Cleveland sports fan, NASCAR fan and member of St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Lorain.

He is survived by his son James D. Smith (wife Sandi) of Lorain, grandsons: James F. Smith of Lorain and Jason Buckley of Lorain and sister Patricia Galley (Gene) of Wellington. He was preceded in death by his former wife Sally Smith (nee Lewandowski), son Daniel Smith, daughter Debby Pierce, brother Frank Smith, sister Betty Kirsh and parents Frederick & Theresa Smith (nee Nasipak).

No services are planned at this time. A public wake will be held at a future date in 2021 and will be announced.

Memorial contributions can be made to Elyria Catholic High School, 725 Gulf Rd, Elyria, OH. 44035.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel, 3224 Broadway Ave, Lorain.

Online condolences can be made at www.gluvna.net.