Edwin “Ed” Duane Smaltz

On Saturday, February 13th, 2021, Edwin “Ed” Duane Smaltz, loving husband and father of three children passed away at the age of 76. He was the son of the late Russell Emmett and Emily Eugenia Beucler Smaltz, born in Findlay, OH, on June 14th, 1944.
Edwin leaves behind his cherished wife Kaye L. Roozen, his children: Dianna (Douglas) Uyehara, Michael (Allison) Smaltz and Jennifer (Mark) Krebs; his sister, Betty (Don) Rozzell; his grandchildren Douglas Uyehara Jr., Savannah Smaltz, Wyatt Smaltz, and Rylee Smaltz.
As a gifted athlete, he was captain of the defensive line for Liberty Benton High School and was selected for the Hancock County All Star Team. Ed enlisted on June 6th, 1966 and served his country proudly in the United States Army. He did one tour in Vietnam and separated from the service on June 5th, 1972 at the rank of Specialist Six. After his time in the service, he received his engineering degree from DeVry University and spent several years in the telecommunications field. His unwavering work ethic led him to be part of several groundbreaking projects that included voicemail and prepaid phone cards.
Ed was involved in several social organizations. He was selected to the rank of “Esquire” at the Ocean Springs, MS Elks Lodge, B.P.O.E. 2501. His proudest moment was when he obtained the rank of “Master Mason” at the Central Coast Masonic Lodge #237, Arroyo Grande, CA. He was also involved in several other clubs to include the Eagles Lodge, the Moose Lodge and the American Legion. He will always be remembered as having a quick wit with a sharp sense of humor, for being fiercely loyal to his family and friends, his steadfast “can do” attitude and willingness to help those in need. Ed will truly be missed by his family and friends.
Along with his parents Ed was predeceased by his sister Marilyn and brothers, Paul and Earl.