Dr. Martin I. Smith

Dr. Martin I, Smith died, December 27, 2014, at Capstone Nursing Home, Amsterdam, NY. He was born in Port Washington, NY, was 97 years old and a graduate of Columbia University, (’37) and Columbia Dental School (’40). He was an accomplished musician on the saxophone and clarinet, playing in dance bands throughout his college years. Martin practiced dentistry in New York City and upstate NY for over 30 years. Martin was a somewhat fearless man of varied interests, including being a dairy farmer for many years in Stamford, NY, where he also had a dental practice. He was not a gentleman farmer, preferring instead to do all  the physical work himself. He loved his animals, the land and cutting wood which he did until 89 years of age. His was not a life of all work as he was an avid golfer and skier. Martin prided himself on being a poor man’s dentist, frequently using the barter system in support of families who couldn’t afford the dental fees. Martin was fiercely independent, relying on his wit, intellect, grit and faith to raise and support a family. He was a member of the greatest generation.

Martin is survived by his sons; Martin Jr. (Kathleen) of Fonda, Kevin (Sue) of SanDiego, CA, a daughter, Martina Schmitt of Esperance, 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Veronica (Crespy) and two daughters, Veronica Henighan and Darice Ahern.

Martin was a devote Catholic of unwavering faith.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, from 5 to 7 pm at the White-Van Buren Funeral Home, 1779 Main St. Delanson.

Funeral services will begin on Saturday, 9:15 from the funeral home, followed at 10 am by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Delanson.

Memorial donations may be made to Catholic Charities, 40 North Main Ave. Albany, NY, 12203 or at catholic.charities@rcda.org.

Burial will be in the spring at Grove Cemetery.

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