Charles Smith

Charles "Chick" Barton Smith, Jr., age 86, passed away on October 22, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Chick was the eldest of three children, born and raised in Cheltenham, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Cheltenham High School, earned a bachelor's Degree from Muhlenberg College, and a master's in Business from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business.

Chick's father, Charles Smith Sr., owned Smith's Hardware on Central Avenue in Cheltenham, and as a young adult, you'd frequently see Chick behind the counter, proudly supporting the family business.

Chick met the love of his life, Elizabeth "Bitsy" (Lockard), at his sister Joan's wedding; it was love at first sight. Together, they had four children, Charles, Kimberly, Ken, and Greg, and were blissfully married for 59 years; his marriage and family were considered Chick's "greatest accomplishment."

After earning his master's degree, Chick's ambition for commerce led him to a highly successful career, employed by Aamco, Sun Ship, Chubb National Foam, and RCA, where he worked as a Purchasing Manager; he was also a professor at Penn State College, Media, PA, where he educated students on the art of procurement. Chick was most proud of being a founding partner of Compass Financial Advisors alongside his son, Ken, where he served as a Chief Investment Officer for more than 20 years. Aside from his family, Chick's greatest devotion was to the military; he was honored to serve his nation proudly as a member of the Naval Reserves.

Chick was a magnetic force known for his big smile, bright blue eyes, warmheartedness, and keen intellect. Chick had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He often spent his spare time researching topics of interest or reading books. Chick was passionate about tracing the family lineage through numerous photographs, Ancestry, and other mediums. Chick advocated for his ancestors and resurrected their memoirs to ensure each unique legacy was carried forward and celebrated.

Chick loved the game of baseball, playing in college and several leagues throughout his youth. If you ever rode past his childhood home on Franklin Avenue in Cheltenham, you would often see Chick practicing his techniques by catching the ball against the front porch steps for hours. Chick was a devoted Phillies (Robin Roberts was his baseball hero) and Penn State foot football fan; he coached several Little League baseball and soccer throughout his life, and he loved educating the kids about the fundamentals of the sport and sharing stories of his cherished childhood sports memories. While Chick notably enjoyed sports, he was also a gardener at heart, fostering this enthusiasm from his
parents, which continues to be passed down through the generations today. Chick's gardening was legendary and famous for his love of growing tomato plants from seed. He would produce a copious amount of tomato plants, carefully nurturing them to maturity, intending to share his passion with others. He gave away tomato plants to family and friends so they could share the same happiness that gave him so much joy. Chick was an avid golfer and bowler, frequenting the Moccasin Run Golf Club and Sproul Bowling Lanes, where he once momentously bowled a perfect score of 300. Throughout his life, Chick was very proud of his military service and gave back to other veterans, often volunteering with the USO at the Philadelphia International Airport and receiving several metals of honor for his dedication and volunteerism. He was a lifelong member of Cheltenham United Methodist Church.

Chick was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Gladys Smith of Cheltenham, PA.

Survivors: Beloved Wife of 59 years: Elizabeth "Bitsy" A. Smith. Children: Charles "Chuck" Smith (Michelle), Kimberly Charlery (Des), Ken Smith (Peggy), and Greg Smith (Nicole). Siblings: Joan Wildsmith (Roy) and Donald Smith (Eileen). Grandchildren: Emily, Rachel, Debbie Acchione (Brian), Dan, Gregory, Abigail, and Ryan.

Chick/Dad, we will miss you immensely. Because of you, we lead with the hearts of a lion, endless love for family, and a prolific work ethic. We thank you for the unconditional love you gave us, unwavering guidance, and gentle words of advice. Our beautiful lives today are because of you and Mom, your hard work, and your boundless love for us. We are all better people because of you. Our hearts overflow with love for you; we are the luckiest family in the world, and we know you will continue to be our perpetual beacon light that will burn forever, just like our profound and eternal love for you...

Chick's family will be planning a Celebration of Life memorial service to be announced at a later date. In Lieu of Flowers: Memorial donations may be made in Chick's memory to the Pennsylvania and New Jersey USO at www.uso.org/donate/paandnj.

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