Poem by Elmer E. Smith I'm a wizard I'm a sage I'm a prisoner in a skin covered cage But when my crystal ball is clear I can see Almost all the way to Eternity . . .

Elmer E. Smith was born in Paris, Texas on February 16, 1927, and grew up in Clarksville, Texas. Elmer is an A.D. Graduate from C.C.D., and also obtained a B.A. Degree in Journalism from M.S.C. in Denver. He worked for the Veteran's Administration Hospital before retiring. Elmer had a passion for writing poetry and discerning the origin of words used in the English language. He published several collections of poetry. His poems reflect his sense of humor and his great love of life. His hobbies included photography, wine making and telling jokes.

My father was a fighter. He was determined to beat cancer. I remember traveling home and visiting my father in the hospital. He turned to me and said, "Where's the gym in this place?" He was convinced that he could conquer his illness and be healthy again, if only he could get back to the gym . . .

My father was a fighter. He was determined to beat cancer. I remember traveling home and visiting my father in the hospital. He turned to me and said, "Where's the gym in this place?" He was convinced that he could conquer his illness and be healthy again, if only he could get back to the gym . . .

Today I'm thinking of my father who passed on in December of 2008. I know that he watches over me and our whole family still.

Our earliest recollection of Elmer Smith was when he and his wife, Mary Jane, would come to Cure d'Ars Catholic Church and sit in the cry room with us. We had a couple of little ones and so did the Smiths and we spent many a Sunday morning in the cry room with them. He was a very kind person and always had a good story to tell. We will miss him. Alice and Terry Kelly

Ella Louise Smith

15 years ago

Dear Alice and Terry Kelly, Thank you so much for your kind words about my father, Elmer E. Smith. Just wanted to share with you that today, February 16th, would have been my father's 82nd Birthday. He passed away on December 3, 2008, which was my mother's 79th Birthday. I'm in the midst of planning a way to honor my father, Elmer E. Smith, who was a poet. I am in the midst of collecting some of his poems. I hope to have a publication together by December 3, 2009. I plan to give the publication to my mother for her 80th Birthday this year December 3, 2009. I'd like to give her an 80th Birthday Party in Denver this year, December 3, 2009. Keep December 2009 in mind. Also, keep an eye out for news on the re-publication of my father's book of poems. (I'm looking for a publisher, or considering self-publishing. Will let you know more soon.) Peace & Blessings, From Ella Louise Smith, Astoria, New York (daughter of Elmer E. Smith)

To: Gladys, Eugene and the Entire family, Although we have only spoke on the phone, I feel a common bond to this family. Hearing your voices describe your fathers' distinct character and warm manner, has given me a clear image of a loving husband and devoted father. He will be greatly miss by us all! Judith Marie Matthews-Palmer

Uncle Elmer was a man who could use words to show kindness and understanding. His intellectual prowness and compassion were reknown to those that knew him. As a child I can remember that the door to the smith home was always an open one. To uncle Elmer and aunt Mary there were no strangers,all were welcome. His love for family, jovial manner and keen wit will never be forgotten. Clarence Palmer

Bear Necessities: a Rich Childhood Honey and Kisses, Up, up in the air, Bear hugs and giggles, Favorite chair! Junk food parties, Messy den or lair, Dinnertime chuckles, For Dad, let's cheer! Smell of foot powder, Cuff-links in pairs, Wallets and lather, Toys repaired! Piggyback rides, Sleepy lifts to bed, Safety abides! Sweet dreams in my head. Honey and kisses, Forbidding front door, long lonely misses, until....those adored are restored! Gladys Marie Smith-Duran Copyright ©2002 Gladys Marie Smith-Duran

revpal

15 years ago

Dear Aunt Maryjane, Galdys, Eugene, Elouise, Donald With a great sincere heart, I wish you my condolences. No one knows the pain or the loss that you feel until you go through it yourself. Uncle Elmer will be greatly missed by all. I always enjoyed his stories and unique view on theology. On one of my visits to Denver, I remember when Uncle Elmer and I discussed the origin of sin. He had a unique take on it of course and I enjoyed my conversations with him. He could put a smile on your face just by talking to you. He and aunt Maryjane always made you feel welcomed and loved in there home. My prayers are with you. Love Nephew-Cousin Rev. Arlan Palmer Grand Rapids, MI