Obituary of Delbert Smith

Delbert Clayton Smith February 17, 1922 - December 2, 2010 Delbert Clayton Smith was born in Prichard, West Virginia on February 17, 1922. He was the son of the late Charley Smith and the late Laura Belle (Riggs) Smith. Delbert served his country honorably as a Corporal First Class in the United States Army. He served several enlistments from December of 1942 until July of 1953. While in the military, Delbert's, work included time spent as an ambulance attendant and driver. For many years he worked in the steel manufacturing industry. He worked as a crane operator for Mandel Steele now known as North American Steel. Delbert was a member of the UAW and a former shop steward at his plant before retiring in the 1970's. Delbert always had a positive attitude and was even known by others as happy go lucky. He befriended everyone he came across. He loved to travel and spent many memorable trips camping in his Winnebago. His constant companion, best friend, and self-proclaimed "love of his life" was his dog: Sissy. They were always together. Delbert Clayton Smith age 88 of Monroe passed away at 7:45pm, Thursday, December 2, 2010 at Mercy Memorial Hospital in Monroe. His loving family was at his side and he had been under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by all his siblings, a niece: Debby Onskst; and a wife Maxine Brakeman. He leaves to cherish his memory a niece: Kathy Kane; a step-daughter: Sharon (Bradley) Young of Monroe; three grandchildren: Donald Joseph (Sally) Cicotte of Maryland, Robert Delbert (Michelle) Cicotte of Allen Park, and Andrew Franklin (Jenni) Cicotte of Monroe; seven great grandchildren: Joey, Jake, D.J., Jerry, Michael, Konner, and Christian. Friends may gather from 12:00pm until 5:00pm on Sunday, December 12, 2010 at the Oak Forest Villa and Townhouses Club House, 300 Twin Oaks Drive in Monroe. A service will be held at 1:00pm with full military honors under the auspices of the Monroe VFW Post 1138 ritual team. A brunch will follow at the Oak Forest Club House. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 was entrusted with his arrangements.