Merle E. Smith

Merle Eugene Smith, age 85, died February 24, 2007 at the Richland Hospital in Richland Center. Merle Eugene Smith, age 85, passed away February 24, 2007 at the Richland Hospital in Richland Center. He was born on June 11, 1921 in Washburn, Illinois to Bernard and Bertha (Onken) Smith. He was united in marriage to his sweetheart, Jean E. Vandenberg, on September 10, 1947. They lived in Dolton, Illinois until 1982 when they moved to Viola. Merle was a flight instructor during WW2 and had a career as a decorator. He was an avid bowler and motorcyclist. He loved playing and watching basketball. He is survived by one daughter, Peggy (Dennis) Rios of Merrillville, IN, one son, Ben (Gail) Smith, of Viola, six grandchildren, William (Jackie) Vargo of Grayslake, IL, Timothy (Peggy) Vargo of Lowell, IN, Daniel Mirabelli of Green Bay, WI, Julie (Brian) Funke of Gurnee, IL, Bernard Smith of Mt. Prospect, IL, Jacob Smith of Oak Creek, WI, 5 great grandchildren, one brother, Sidney (Edna) Smith of Viola, and many nieces and nephews. Merle was preceded in death by his wife Jean, his parents and sister, Marjorie Smith. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the Viola United Methodist Church with Pastor John Gannon officiating. Friends may call at the church on Tuesday after 10:00 a.m. The Vosseteig Funeral Homes Henthorn Memorial Center of Viola is serving the family.