William Smelko Obituary

William A. Smelko, age 74, passed away on March 28, 2025 surrounded by his beloved family. William was born on February 13, 1951 in Wheeling, West Virginia to Emil and Grace (Eileen) Smelko.

William is lovingly survived by his wife, Mary Burns Smelko, who was the the love and light of his life. William and Mary were married for 52 Years and had 3 daughters: Jodi (Chris) Smelko Schneider, Jennifer (William) Peck, and Elizabeth (Doug) Bell. His daughters were the pride and joy of his life, and he was always by their side cheering them on as they achieved their goals. William was an amazing father, husband, grandfather, and friend and he always kept us laughing. He will be missed by his cherished grandchildren Jacob Peck, Jenna (Zachary) Lee, Elizabeth Schneider, Olivia Schneider, William Bell, Jillian Bell, and Molly Bell. He crafted a special bond with each of his grandchildren and his legacy will live on through their lives. William also is survived by and will be missed by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition, William leaves behind his sisters who he loved very much: Paula (Donald) Giffin and Penny Jo (Daniel) Frizzi. He was preceded in death by his parents Emil and Grace (Eileen) Smelko, and his brothers John Sabinski and Alan Sabinski.

He will also be dearly missed by his loving in-laws Marion Ackerman, Margaret (Michael) Shaw, Catharine Berry, and Esther Parker. He was preceded in death by Lowell and Helen Bums, Constance Ackerman, Bob Berry, and Bill Parker. William will be missed by his many childhood friends from Bellaire, Ohio – especially best friend, Dave Dougherty. William truly loved and was proud to be from Bellaire, Ohio.

Willam loved football and coaching youth. He loved making a lasting impact on society and giving back to the community. In 1998 and 1999, as an Assistant Coach of the Brookpark Middle School Trojans, he helped secure two district football Championship titles with Wayne Cumberlander. William loved the Pittsburgh Steelers and was present for the immaculate reception. Another proud moment was winning the 2010 Sportsman Golf League with his Son-in-Law Chris Schneider. William was one of kind and someone you never forgot meeting - he had the gift of gab.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor William on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Newcomer SW Chapel, located at 3393 Broadway Grove City, Ohio. The service will be held from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm with a service at 3:00 pm conducted by Mr. Joseph Shaw. All are invited to share their stories and love for the incredible life of William A. Smelko.