Calvin D. Smith

ELDRED, Pa. — Calvin D. Smith, 86, a lifelong resident of Barnum Road in Eldred, passed away unexpectedly Monday (June 16, 2026) at Olean (N.Y.) General Hospital, surrounded by his family.

He was born Oct. 22, 1939, in Bradford, the son of the late Walter and Ethel Leake Smith. In 1961, Calvin married Lillian Spino of Olean in Eldred.

He dedicated his life to community service, serving 13 years as an Otto-Eldred School board director. He was a life member of the Eldred Township Fire Department, where he served as fire chief for 12 years. His passion for firefighting and public safety continued throughout his life as a Pennsylvania State fire instructor, Pennsylvania forest fire warden and Pennsylvania emergency fire service coordinator for Eldred Township. He was also a life member of the Tri-County Fire Organization.

Calvin was a member of the Eldred Masonic Lodge and a member of the Coudersport Consistory. He was a proud 32° Scottish Rite Freemason, dedicated to the principles of brotherhood, charity and truth.

In 1971, Calvin established Smith’s Fire Service, which he owned and operated until stepping down for health reasons in 2024. He also worked for and retired from Ball-Incon (formerly Pierce Glass) in Port Allegany. Earlier in his career, he worked for several local oil field operators, including Wood Drilling.

When he found spare time, Calvin could often be seen on one of his favorite Farmall H tractors. Whether haying, planting, harvesting corn or simply brush-hogging, he loved gathering both willing and unwilling helpers to join him in the hobbies he enjoyed. He was also an avid beekeeper and was well-known for rescuing local residents from unexpected honeybee swarms during the summer months.

Calvin will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his community, his love of the outdoors, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.

He is survived by his beloved sons, Dale Smith, David (Donna) Smith and Joe (Sabina) Smith. He was reunited in heaven with his son, Stephen Smith, who recently preceded him in death. Calvin was the proud grandfather of Corre (Steve), Cody (Dale), Aryelle, Kyle and Daevyn (David), Jordan Mohney, Katie Jo Barrett and Samantha (Joe); as well as two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. His brothers, George (Bonnie) Smith and Orin (Marilyn) Smith, survive him.He was preceded in death by his brother Marvin (Joan) Smith.

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until noon Monday (June 22, 2026) at Guenther Funeral Home, 1303 E. State St., Olean, with a funeral service to follow at noon. Burial will be in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Portville.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Eldred Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.