Allen Edward Smith

Allen Edward Smith Jr., 92, of Robinson, IL, died January 2, 2021, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes, IN. He was born December 18, 1928, in Honey Creek Township, Crawford County, IL, the son of Allen Edward Smith, Sr. & Ghloe Irene (Higgins) Smith, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Norma Rice; by his brothers, Otis Carl Smith, Charles Edward Smith, Otto Burl Rich, Jesse David Smith, and Donald Ray Smith; and by his grandson, Ben Snell. He married Sara Joann Whitmer on June 25, 1967, and she survives. He is also survived by his son & daughter-in-law, Harold & Amber Smith; by his granddaughters, Brandi Smith (& fiance, Harrison Toothman) and Brittani Snell; by his sisters, Josephine Attaway, Marjorie Denton, Barbara Sharp, Shirley Warren, and Betty Ulrey; as well as a host of nieces and nephews. Allen grew up in the Flat Rock area before answering his country's call when he enlisted into the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War. Though he came back home for a brief time following his honorable discharge, he soon found work with Republic Steel in South Chicago, IL, where he eventually worked his way up to General Foreman before retirement. It was in the Chicagoland area that he became involved with Freemasonry and was a Past Master of the East Chicago Lodge #595. Locally, he was a member of the Robinson Moose Lodge, the American Legion Post #69, as well as the Otterbein United Methodist Church. Anyone who knew Allen could attest to his love of the Chicago Cubs. Baseball season found him wrapped up in nearly every game, and this was a great source of joy in his life, as was time spent outdoors. In his younger days, he and his family took in God's creation camping at Potato Creek near South Bend, IN. For years, he found peace and fulfillment in fishing and spent countless hours with a pole in hand over the course of his life. We who are left behind grieve his passing but do so with hope. We are thankful for the gift of his memory but are even more thankful for the gift of life eternal alongside our Savior. Due to the increased public safety measures being enforced by the State of Illinois, funeral services will be private. Allen will be laid to rest in the Robinson New Cemetery. Memorials may be made to "Warriors2US", an organization that provides a recreational working camp for veterans and first responders who need occasional camaraderie, helping to minimize stress and environmental conflict issues. Checks may be mailed to: Goodwine Funeral Home 303 E Main St Robinson, IL 62454 You can also donate online by visiting www.warriors2us.com/donate The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.