John “Curt” Smith

​John “Curt” Smith, 72, of Arnold, passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2022, while surrounded by his family, at UPMC Shadyside Hospital. Curt was born May 28, 1949 in New Kensington to the late John “Jack” C. and Christine Kravanja Smith. Curt graduated in 1967 from New Kensington High School and was a National Merit Scholar recipient and graduated from Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA in 1971. Curt married the love of his life, Darla Shoemaker on September 25, 1976. He was the head of the Stores Department at Allegheny Ludlum and retired in 2013 after 40 years. Curt enjoyed visiting Gettysburg (which he visited nearly every year on the anniversary of the battle for the past 30 years) and National Parks, reading, music, ice cream, and taking walks with his wife and dog, Mason. Curt was the absolute definition of a family man. He made so many sacrifices throughout his life to make sure that his family always came first. There was never any question that his daughters were his pride and joy. The love and encouragement he gave to his daughters through every moment in their lives was unmatched. That love multiplied when he became a grandfather (Pappy). The bond he had with his grandchildren was so incredibly special, especially with his oldest grandchild, LeBryn, as he was not only Pappy but also a father figure and best friend. There was no place he’d rather be than at a game, practice or activity supporting his children and grandchildren. And, through his children and grandchildren, his legacy of love, support, encouragement and unwavering commitment will always live on. Curt is survived by his wife, Darla Smith, and three daughters: Taryn (Luke) Stone of Indianapolis, Indiana; Ashley (Corey) Smith of Allegheny Township; and Marisa (Renee Shepherd) Smith of Bloomfield; seven grandchildren, LeBryn, Skylar and Tyce Smith; and Denison, Walker, Landry and Rowan Stone; sister, Christine (Tina) & Don Bowers, brother-in-law Bob (Patti) Shoemaker and several nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 24, 2022 at RJ Slater IV Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1000 Freeport Road, New Kensington, PA.724-335-0100. A service will follow at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Duke University to support research for Pompe disease (which his grandson, Tyce, so bravely fights) at www.gifts.duke.edu/dch?designation=3914261 ; or The Gettysburg Foundation at www.gettysburgfoundation.org.