Oliver K Smith

Oliver K. Smith

Oliver K. Smith, 75, passed away Monday (Nov. 24, 2008) at Via Christi Regional Medical Center-St. Francis campus in Wichita.

He was born Feb. 19, 1933, in rural Heflin, La., to Jim and Maggie (McDowell) Smith. They preceded him in death.

Oliver married Lois Pickrom on Sept. 26, 1953, in Ringgold, La. They moved to Newton in 1959. Lois died on Jan. 12, 1996.

Oliver was a retired heavy equipment operator. Oliver loved to fish, sing, garden and cook. He was a 'speed demon' who enjoyed driving fast.

He was a big-hearted man with a reassuring smile. He loved to help people and always grew more produce than he could use so he could give it away.

He could be a practical joker and was a sharp dresser.

Survivors include daughters, Lora (Smith) McCormick of Wichita and Pamela (Smith) Coleman of Newton; sons, Dennis Smith of Newton, Lonnie Smith of Los Angeles, Oliver Smith Jr. of Hutchinson, Roger Smith of Newton, Martin Smith of Newton and Richard Smith of Hutchinson; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He also was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.

Visitation will be from 1 to 9 p.m. Monday at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton, with family greeting friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Graveside service will be at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton, with the Rev. Wade Moore officiating.