Waldo "Erv" Erwin Smith

Waldo E. "Erv" Smith, age 93, of Arthur, NE, passed away, Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at the Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala. 

Waldo, the third son of George (Casey) and Florence (Johnson) Smith, was born on his father's homestead at Arthur County, Nebraska on January 30 1927.

He received his early education in a one-roomed country school in Arthur County. He graduated from the eighth grade as a salutatorian of his class.

Waldo was a many talented individual. He never bought anything new as long as he could repair the old or build a new replacement.

He entered the Army on January 5, 1951 and served in Korea with a top security clearance until December 31, 1952. 

On April 26, 1963 he was sworn in as Arthur Post Master, where he served until he retired on May 1, 1987.

On November 23, 1968 he was united in marriage to Mavis Steinke at Arthur. The couple resided in Arthur where he was employed by the US Postal Service, retiring in 1987. Mr. Smith also worked as a mechanic, a carpenter, and did electrical work. He was often called upon to do odd jobs for friends and neighbors.

He was a life member of the VFW and American Legion where he attended many state conventions and ten National Conventions. During the time he was elected to three State Offices and served on several committees. He was a charter member of the Arthur Lions Club, Arthur Square Dance Club and Arthur Golf Club. Waldo was elected to the Ogallala Hospital Board in 1973 and served for 14 years. He enjoyed traveling, having visited 48 of the 50 states and also 6 foreign countries. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and 1 brother, Arvid Smith.

Waldo is survived by; his wife, Mavis, of Arthur; and 1 brother; Gerald (Rhoda) Smith, of Scottsbluff, NE; 1 sister-in-law, Hazel Smith, of Edgar, NE; nephews, Dave (Rhonda) Groshans, of Gering, NE; George (Sondie) Smith, of Bertrand, NE; Waldo (Melanie) Smith, of Columbus, NE; and nieces; Lillas (Shawn) Hemenway, of Roca, NE; Laurie Wessels, of Edgar, NE; Colleen (Ken) Wood, of North Platte, NE; Tracy Mumford and Lynn Smith, both of Fremont. 

Visitation will be held Monday, August 17, 2020 from 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. in the Arthur Baptist Church in Arthur, NE.

A Funeral Service will be at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 18, 2020 in the Arthur Baptist Church with Rev. Chuck Rager of the First United Methodist Church of Ogallala officiating.

Military Honors by the Everett J. Yates American Legion Post #20.

Burial will be, Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. (C.T.) in the Fort McPherson National Cemetery, near Maxwell, NE.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the Nebraska American Legion in his name. 

Online condolences may be left at www.drauckerfh.com by clicking the Share a Memory or Tribute Wall button. The service will be live streamed. 

Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.