Johnnie Walter “Pete” Smelcer, 82, passed away at his home in New Canton on Friday, August 28, 2015, after a lengthy fight with cancer.

A funeral memorial service was held Sunday, August 30, at Welcome Wesleyan Church in New Canton with interment in the church cemetery.

Mr. Smelcer was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Clyde Smelcer and Anna McCarter Smelcer, of New Canton, and his sister, Billie Smelcer Franck of Glen Allen. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Lightfoot Smelcer; a sister, Mildred Smelcer Jones of New Canton; a son, Donald Smelcer and wife, Penny of Apex, NC; and a daughter, Bonnie Smelcer Scott and husband, Andy of Goochland.

He was known affectionately as “Papaw” to his two grandsons of whom he was very proud, Mark Alexander Smelcer of Raleigh, NC, and Cody Andrew Scott of Henrico.

Having proudly served with the U.S. Army as a Master Sergeant during the Korean War, Mr. Smelcer will be buried with military honors. He was an American patriot who often made contributions to veterans’ charities. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association.

After his retirement from Arvonia/Buckingham Slate Quarry, where he was a loyal emloyee for over 40 years, he enjoyed reading books, particularly about military history. He also spent many happy hours enjoying the companionship of his beloved Dobermans.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice of the Piedmont, 675 Peter Jefferson Pkwy., Ste 300, Charlottesville, VA 22911.

Arrangements were directed by Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn.