Edward J. "Ed" Smitek, 82, passed away Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at St. John Medical Center in Westlake after a four month illness. Edward was consistently surrounded by his family and close friends who advocated for his care when he could no longer speak for himself. His loving wife of 53 years was by his side every day. Edward was born to Nick and Sophie Smitek (nee Mrocek), he graduated from North Ridgeville High School. Ed proudly served his Country in the Army, attending boot camp at Ft. Benning, Ga. and he was stationed in Germany. During his time in the Army he competed in rifle matches and sharpshooter competitions at Camp Perry,Oh. where he was a top scorer in these matches. When he returned home he became self-employed as an excavating contractor for cities and municipalities. Edward was very talented, he designed and built 3 beautiful homes for his family , and was the first to start growth in Avon by developing a number of subdivisions . He enjoyed cooking, was happiest spending time with his family, friends and pets, and loved babysitting his granddaughters when they were younger. Edward was always kind-hearted , he went out of his way to help people and animals alike. He was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church in Elyria. He was devoted to his wife, children, and grandchildren. Edward will be missed by his wife, Mary Belle (nee Howard); his daughter Dr. Regina Costantino of Elyria; Regina's daughters Courtney (Mark) Craig and Meghan Costantino; Robert's daughters Kaycee and Abagail Smitek; sisters Agnes Staveski and Carolyn Forthofer; brothers John and James; several nieces and nephews and longtime close friends. Edward was preceded in death by his son Robert in August, 2017; his parents; several sisters, brothers, nephews and friends. Family will receive friends 4-8 PM Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at St. Rt. 57), Elyria 440-322-4626. Closing prayers 9:30 AM Wednesday, November 29, 2017 in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial 10AM at St. Jude Catholic Church 590 Poplar Street Elyria,Ohio 44035. Rev. Fr. Frank P. Kosem will be the Celebrant. Burial St. Joseph Cemetery (Avon), where full military honors will be provided by V.F.W. post # 1079. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com