Born Sept. 23, 1924 in Oil Trough, Ark., Walter Case Smothermon most of all loved his family and his country. He served in World War II in the Army with dedication, watching out for “his boys.” Walt was awarded a Silver Star and a Bronze Star for his service.

He loved gardening and giving vegetables to everyone he knew; neighbors, church friends, and anyone who wanted to come and pick. He also loved driving his tractor for annual hayrides at Madeline-Bertrand Park.

He attended Forestbrook Missionary Church for many years.

He married Shirley Ann (Powers) Smothermon in Marion, South Carolina on June 9, 1948.

Walt and Shirley raised four children, Pat Strefling (Dale), Linda Mueller (Gil), Dan Smothermon (Carol), and Paul Smothermon (Kim).

He was proud of each of his children and enjoyed every one of his 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one step-granddaughter.

Two brothers and two sisters preceded him in death.

One sister, Ila Mae Evans, Mena, Arkansas survives him.

A memorial will be held at Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011 at 3 p.m. at Forestbrook Missionary Church, located on the corner of Darden and Forestbrook Avenue, South Bend.

In lieu of flowers, please make your donations to Hospice at Home, 4017 Chamberlain Rd,, Buchanan, MI 49107 or The Old Rugged Cross Foundation, P.O. Box 41, Niles, MI 49120.

Those wishing to leave a message, upload a photo of Walt or leave condolences may do so at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.