Howard V. Smrz

Howard V. Smrz, age 83 of Hiawassee, Georgia passed away peacefully at home after an extended kidney illness. Howard was the proud son of Howard V. and Dorothy Smrz, born in Oak Park, Illinois on January 28, 1942. He served in the Air Force for five years as a flight mechanic at the rank of Staff Sargent during early Vietnam era. He was a life member of both the VFW and American Legion. He met and married the love of his life and best friend, Betsy Gibson Smrz and they were married 56 years. He is also survived by his son, David and twin grandsons, Jordan and Nicholas as well as three brothers-in-law, one sister-in-law, and his nieces and nephews.

He and Betsy moved to Hiawassee in 1995. Howard spent the next 26 years in real estate. He loved hunting, fishing, and boating, but most of all he loved his family, friends, and the country he so proudly served.

At Howard's request there will be no service but he will be buried at the Veterans cemetery, Holly Hill in Blairsville, Georgia at a later date.

Howard and Betsy are eternally thankful for the excellent and loving care by the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville and final care by Appalachian Hospice.