Howard F. Smith Jr.

   "There are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children," said Henry Ward Beecher. "One of these is roots; the other, wings." Howard F. Smith, Jr.'s roots were steadfast, and helped our wings soar high,

   Howard, 76, of Caledonia, died June 26, 2003 at Highland Hospital in Rochester. He left a life guided by work, kindness, and the Golden Rule.

   He was born in Pike, New York, on December 7, 1926, to Howard and Helen Smith. His father was a quiet, gentle farmer. His mother received a college degree in the 1920s -- a then a rarity for a woman.

   Howard's parents instilled a passionate belief in self-reliance. In 1945, at 18, he entered Cornell's School of Agricultural Science. The next year his mother took ill, and Howard transferred to Houghton College, near Pike. There he met Guendolen Stuart, of Worcester, Massachusetts. In 1949, they both graduated; Howard from Cornell; Guendolen, Houghton. On June 7, they were married at Pike Community Church.

   In 1952, the new couple moved to Caledonia, living on Church Street for the next 41 years. Howard taught at Caledonia-Mumford Central School -agricultural science through 1963; as guidance counselor 1964-89. In 1958 and 1963, respectively, he received his Masters of Science degree (Cornell) and Guidance accreditation (University of Rochester).

   "When work is a pleasure, life is a joy!" said a Russian writer. "When work is a duty, life is slavery." Howard found work a joy. As agricultural teacher- he enjoyed taking students on trips to local, area, and Midwest farms. Later, as guidance counselor, he led them to college and vocational programs.

   Howard also owned a backhoe business, became a licensed real estate salesman, bought and oversaw apartment buildings in Caledonia and Rochester, and was elected and appointed 1963-91 village and town assessor. He loved working with people, and with his hands. In 1993, Howard and Guendolen built a new home on Caledonia's Brown Road, which he designed and contracted.

   To Howard, what counted most was Faith, Family, and Friends. He served First Presbyterian Church of Caledonia as Elder, Trustee, Deacon, member of the Men's Club, and on the nominating, planning, stewardship, and property committees. In the 1990s, he supported the purchase of the next-door Connor House -- and S.O.S. (Sources of Success) program.

   Howard had a lovely voice, was a soloist for services, weddings, and funerals, and for many years sang in the church choir. He sang and performed in many CMCS variety shows, and was a member of the Geneses Country Museum Chorus. The love of music and education led to the Howard F. Smith, Jr., Musician Scholar Award at CMCS.

   Howard made countless friends in his half-century in Caledonia. At one time or another he was active in the Masonic Lodge, Lion's Club, Caledonia Fire Department, ambulance crew, and in local politics. He had played high school and college basketball, and avidly followed CMCS sports, especially football and basketball.

   He had a green thumb, growing plants, trees, and gardens. Roses were a favorite. Another love was lilies. Each year he bought them at seasons end. Next year they thrived in a cacophony of colors. Especially in retirement, he built, and placed birdfeeders, fed birds in winter, and enjoyed travel with his wife and family.

   Family, of course, came first. In 1949, Howard and Guendolen honeymooned in the Adirondack Mountains with $35 to their name. The menu consisted of macaroni. In 1999, their five children served macaroni at a 50th anniversary party!

   Howard is survived by his wife Guendolen Stuart Smith, and his five children Curt and Sarah Smith; Russell and Patty Smith; Carolyn and Bruce Wyatt; Karen and Wayne Pilkington; and Brian and Deanna Smith.

   "Poppa" or "Grandpa" loved his 12 grandchildren; playing Batman at a birthday party; singing with them; and introducing root beer, pop corn, doughnuts, and Monopoly. He is survived by them; brother James and Doris Smith; brother-in-law Charles and Jeannette Stuart; several nieces, nephews. and cousins.

   In the Bible, Jesus talks of a man who made good use of his God-given talents "Well done, thy good and faithful servant." Howard loved God, lived a good and faithful life, and was proud to be an American. A favorite song of his was "The Lord's Prayer." Perhaps he is now singing it with the Heavenly Hosts.

   Calling hours and committal services were held on June 25, 2003. A memorial service for Howard Smith was held on Saturday, August 2, 2003, at 1 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 3080 West Main Street, Caledonia, New York 14423. Arrangements by the Alhart Funeral Home. A reception followed in Fellowship Hall.

   Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or the Parkinson’s Disease Center, University of Rochester, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, New York.