Arthur Ruff Smith

     Arthur Ruff Smith, 64, of Lorain, Ohio, took his last breath on May 28, 2025 after a long battle with chronic health issues climaxing in congestive heart failure. Art was born February 11, 1961 to Verlan and Dora Smith, the sixth of their seven children. He was a graduate of Admiral King High School and an avid fisherman known as Smitty on the Lake Erie pier and at other local fishing spots. He was a committed member of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association and had a knack for striking up a conversation with just about anyone. Whether he knew you for minutes or decades, a light-hearted joke or story from the past was always ready on his lips in an effort to connect with others. 
     Art was a diligent and hard worker and an entrepreneur at heart. From window washing to sales, auto mechanics to driving bus, or even scrapping metal and renovating trash into treasure, he always found a way to make an extra buck to make ends meet. He prided himself on being self-sufficient while always giving the true credit to His Creator and Provider.
In his younger years he loved to play basketball, passing on a love of the game to his sons and grandsons and occasionally still challenging them to a game of HORSE. The true love of his life, though, was his wife of 45 years, Ilene (Fechko). Together they raised four children, Shawna, Chris, AJ, and Zach, and he often spoke of their accomplishments to others with a light in his eyes. His daughters-in-law (Autumn, Danielle, Emily) were each his favorite, and his son-in-law (Kevin) had no match. Ten grandchildren added another layer of joy to Art’s life, connecting with them through his love of fishing and his often-playful spirit. 
     Art is survived by many who will miss him, including four sisters, one brother, his wife, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, church family, and many friends. He knew his last breath physically would be a temporary rest, awaiting a future resurrection to a much different body at the return of Jesus Christ. His love to share stories of the past was matched only by his joyful anticipation of the coming Kingdom of God. He placed his hope in it and fashioned his life around the gracious promises of a loving God. 
     Family and friends are invited to attend visitation on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Boyer & Cool Home for Funerals, 1124 W. 5th Street, Lorain, OH. A funeral service will be on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM officiated by Pastor Doug Johnson.

     Boyer & Cool Home for Funerals is honored to assist the Smith family during this time of remembrance.

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