Obituary of George Smith

Webster:  Friday, October 2, 2020, age 87.  He leaves his wife of 65 years, Shirley;  children, Barbara (Grant) Wigderson, Kenneth (Barbara) Smith and Timothy Smith;  5 grandchildren, Jennifer (Allen) Fox, Sara (Kalty Vazquez) Wigderson, Lindsay Wigderson, Graham (Caroline) Smith and Kristin Smith;  2 great-grandchildren, Avery and Emersyn Fox;  sister, Margie Miller;  nieces and nephews.

          A 1951 graduate of Webster High School, George enjoyed playing basketball for legendary Coach Bill O’Rourke, Sr.  George married another lifelong Webster resident, Shirley Bassage, on August 20, 1955.  Hunting, fishing and camping were just some of the outdoor activities George loved to do. George and Shirley camped with the Lakesiders camping club for over 40 years. He also bowled and golfed in a league with Duffy’s Duffers.  A cabinet maker, he retired from Axelrod Wood Products after 25+ years of service.  George was also known for his musical abilities.  He played the stand-up bass for Larry Lasch and the Drifting Rangers for many years, and played with different celebrities including Patsy Cline.  A model of kindness and patience, George’s grandchildren remember how committed he was as a grandfather, teaching them many things including water skiing, fishing and snowmobiling. George, dad, grandpa, was loved and will be missed by all. 

          Friends may call 1-3, 6-8 Friday, October 9 at Willard H. Scott Funeral Home, 12 South Ave., Webster.  Graveside Service at the convenience of the family at Holy Trinity Cemetery, Webster.