Arthur D. Smith

Arthur (Artie) Smith made an indelible impression on everyone he met. He was quick-witted, always willing to buy the first, last, and sometimes middle rounds while out with his many friends and family, who would refer to him as “Artie the one-man party”. He could and would strike up a conversation with anyone he met. Artie was a storyteller, who it truly can be said had never met a stranger. He was born October 12, 1939, in Syracuse, NY, and remained in the Liverpool area for more than 50 years before his career relocated him to Louisville, KY, and later retired to Bonita Springs, FL. On Monday, December 18, 2023, Art died peacefully with his loving wife Barbara by his side after a long and brave battle with AML Leukemia. Growing up, he attended Liverpool High School and was a member of the varsity football and baseball teams. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force (1957-1961). Artie attended Syracuse University on the GI-Bill and was a longtime Syracuse University Football fan and season ticket holder. From the concrete seat Archibold Stadium days to the grand opening of the Carrier Dome, Artie was always there to cheer on his beloved Orangemen. Artie also enjoyed his time on the golf course, though all would agree he liked spending time at the 19th hole with his friends even more. Artie belonged to the Glenn Oaks Country Club (Louisville, KY) and later, became a proud member of the “Quota Group” at Highland Woods Country Club (Bonita Springs, FL). Art’s career in union leadership began locally at General Electric in 1961, while working his way up the ranks he held numerous elected positions and ultimately served as President and Business Agent of the Local 320 IUE AFL-CIO from 1979-1990. Art accepted a position with the International Union of Electrical Workers in 1990 and was elected nationally to the Office of Chairman of the IUE-General Electric and Aerospace Conference Board. He was the Union Chief Negotiator for national labor contracts with General Electric, Lockheed-Martin, General Dynamics, and British Aerospace. Art was a fierce and skillful negotiator who would advocate for the membership and was never afraid to fight for their worker’s rights. He retired on December 31, 2003. Art was predeceased by his mother and father, Clarabelle (Grieb) and Harold Smith of Liverpool, NY, and his sister Nancy Ager of Sequim, WA. Surviving is his wife of 45 years, Barbara (May) Smith, originally from Liverpool, NY, now residing in Bonita Springs, FL; his daughter, Carey (Mike) Hutchins of Syracuse, NY; his son, Michael (Karen) Cusano of Clay, NY; his brother Dennis (Jeri) Smith of Auburn Hill, MI; his grandson, Shawn (Ipshita) Trifoso of Charlotte, NC along with a wonderfully supportive extended family and numerous amazing friends. At Artie’s request, there will be no calling hours and a Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made in his honor with the American Cancer Society. Please visit our online register book at www.shikanyfuneralhome.com to leave treasured memories for the family. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Arthur D. Smith

October 12, 1939 - December 18, 2023