RALSTON - Elmer “Babe” L. Smith, 88, of Ralston, passed away, Thursday, March 2, 2017, at his home with his family by his side.  He was born May 26, 1928, son of the late Guy and Viola (Crieng) Smith.

On March 17, 1957, he married the love of his life and they shared 60 wonderful years together.

Elmer was a US Army Veteran serving during the Korean War.  He was self-employed and had a company doing excavating and logging.  He was very good at operating heavy machinery. He also specialized in bridgework and had a hand in constructing the Pine Creek bridge.

Elmer was a member of the United Methodist Church of Ralston.  He loved the outdoors and the sports that came along with it, especially hunting, fishing and trapping. One of his most famous stories was of rescuing a baby bear cub from a tree in the town of Roaring Branch; he coaxed the little bear cub down after he climbed up the tree with a hotdog on a stick. Elmer was a member of the Red Run Rod and Gun Club.

In addition to his loving wife, Rose, Elmer is survived by three children, Elmer “Skip” (April) Smith II, of Bodines, Cindy (Tim) Knaur of Cascade and Sherry (James) Gray of Ralston; Four grandchildren, Nicholas, Jared, Steven, Leland; three great grandchildren, Beau, Scotti, Aiden; a son in law, Collins Maurer and a sister, Connie (Calvin) Stroble, Anchorage, AL.

Elmer was predeceased by his parents, a daughter, Marian Maurer; four brothers and two sisters.

Services for Elmer will be held Saturday, March 11, 2017 at The United Methodist Church of Ralston, 11089 Rte. 14, Ralston, PA  17763.  There will be a visitation for family and friends from 11 am – 12 noon with a memorial service at 12 noon, with Pastor Ann Overmiller officiating. Interment will be in the Pennsdale Cemetery.

Donation in memory of Elmer can be sent to the Susquehanna Hospice, 1100 Grampian Blvd. Williamsport, PA  17701.

Arrangements are being handled by Maneval Allen Redmond Funeral Home, 500 W, 4th Street, Williamsport, PA  17701.

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