Port Leyden- John L. Smith, 91, affectionately known as “Iggy,” widow of Noreen and a former longtime resident of Pearl Street, passed away on Friday, January 13, 2023, with his loving family by his side, at Mohawk Valley Health System, Saint Luke’s Campus, New Hartford.
John was born in the Town of Lyonsdale, on April 16, 1931, a son of Wilbert and Ida Valencourt Smith. He grew up in the village of Port Leyden, where he graduated from Port Leyden High School, with the Class of 1949.
On July 10, 1951, John enlisted in the Marine Corps and served his country in the Korean War, with the 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. In October, 1953, John received an Honorable Discharge.
On April 16, 1955, John was united in marriage with Noreen Leichty, at St. Joseph’s Church, Boonville. This was a loving and joy filled union which endured for 61 years. He was predeceased by his wife on April 29, 2016
In 1965, the couple constructed their home on North Pearl St. in Port Leyden and resided there for 52 years, making wonderful memories with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
John was employed with Law Brothers Contracting for 28 years in the painting division as a supervisor. Later in life, J.L. Smith and Sons Contracting was established where he was employed as a carpenter until he retired.
John was a member of St. Martin’s Church, Port Leyden, J.S. Koster Hose Co. Port Leyden, The Tun Tavern Marine Corps League, the Charles J. Love Post American Legion and the Harland J. Hennessey Post VFW, all of Boonville.
John is survived by his children; Peter (Catherine) Smith, Lisa (Raymond) Brown, Timothy (Nancy) Smith, Melinda (Robert) Kraeger, John (Debra) Smith, Rebecca (Blair) Brown, Rachel (Terry) McClelland; 24 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers, James Smith and Daniel Smith and his sister, Eileen Harvey.
His Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 11:00 A.M. at St. Martin’s Church, Port Leyden, where Rev. Lawrence Marullo, pastor will officiate. Interment with military honors will be at 12 Noon, on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Calvary Cemetery, Port Leyden, where Deacon James Chaufty will officiate and where members of Charles J. Love Post American Legion, Harland J.. Hennessey Post V.F.W. and The Tun Tavern Marine Corps League, all of Boonville, will provide Military Rites. Calling hours are Thursday, 4-7 P.M. at Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. 143 Schuyler St. Boonville. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.
All are invited to attend a luncheon at The Port Leyden Fire Hall Community Room, immediately after the services on Friday and contributions of food may be left at the fire hall on Friday from 9:00 A.M. on.
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