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Donald R. Smith, 91, lifelong resident of Akron, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2013, at Ephrata Manor.

He was born in Akron to the late Daniel and Bertha (Hogentogler) Smith, and was the husband of the late Pauline H. Smith, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage before her passing.

Donald worked for Armstrong World Industries for 37 years before his retirement in 1984. He served in the US Army during WWII in the European Theatre as a military policeman. Shortly after returning home from the service he managed the Akron Junior City/County Baseball team and led them to the Championship in 1947. Donald enjoyed playing golf and tennis. Donald was an active runner from 1978-1993, competing in many local races and also races in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. He ran distances from 5 miles to the Half Marathon. He won many senior age group awards. Donald co-directed the Akron 5 Mile Run from 1978-1985 with the funds raised going toward the walking path at Lloyd Roland Park. He and his wife enjoyed traveling, especially to Hawaii and his annual Army reunions. Donald enjoyed life and touched the lives of many people. He loved his family, friends and his beloved South 10th Street neighbors.

Donald is survived by his sons, D. Glen, husband of Jennifer A. (DeLong) Smith of Dagsboro, DE, Kirby N., husband of Donna L. (Heffelbower) Smith of Akron; granddaughters, Kathryn P. (Smith) Baughman of West Chester; Dena Lombardo of Lancaster, Heather A. Smith of Ephrata; a brother, Arthur Smith of Akron.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by 4 brothers, Lester, Charles, Marlin "Pete", Melvin "Jack" and a sister, Mildred Smith.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2013, from 9 to 10 am at the Grace EC Church, N. 7th Street, Akron, followed by a memorial service at 10 am with Rev. Kenneth Redcay officiating. Interment will take place in the Memory Gardens Memorial Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Red Rose Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions in Donald's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society-Lanc. Co. Unit, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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