Melvin Robert Smith

Melvin Robert Smith, 88, went to be with the Lord on December 29, 2021, at his home in Perry, Iowa. He was born in Kahoka, Missouri, on January 31,1933, to Avery and Lela Smith.

Melvin proudly served as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War. He found the love of his life Mary Etta Beaver, and they were married on June 21, 1958. He and Mary Etta raised their children in the Des Moines and Hartford area and later retired in Reeds Spring, Missouri. During his career, he worked as a manager at Iowa Bumper Plating and was at Ruan Tire Division where he was the top salesman for several years. He then went to Goodyear Tire and retired after many years of service. Melvin accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and was baptized in Clear Creek, Missouri as a young boy. He continued serving the Lord throughout his lifetime. He was a member of Berean Assembly of God and most recently attended New Hope Assembly of God. He enjoyed fixing up classic cars, was an avid bowler, had a passion for people who were hurting, and especially loved spending time with his family.

Melvin is survived by his children, Marty (Melynda) Smith, Madeline (Dale) Acheson, Marilyn Smith, Mitch (Gail) Smith, Michael (RoxAnna) Smith, and Monica (Randy) Sparks. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Michelle (Tyree), Martin (Kindra), Maria (James), Jared (Becky), Kimberli (Seth), Kristin (Samuel), Abigail (Matthew), Bob (Sharon), Christy, Caitlin (Danny), ShanaLynne, Josiah (Hannah), Izach, Andrew (Aranza), Jeremy (Ashley), and Mathew; 20 great-grandchildren; many beloved nieces and nephews; as well as other extended family and many loving friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Etta; his parents; and sister, Ruby Leffler.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, January 7, 2022, at New Hope Assembly of God, 4425 70th Street, Urbandale, with burial to follow at Palmyra Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 5-8 p.m., Thursday, January 6, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines.

In loving memory of Melvin, memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be designated at a later date.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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