HENRY SMYLIE

December 6, 1930 - May 13, 2016

Henry “Hank” Smylie, long time Willoughby resident, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2016 with his family by his side. He was 85 years old. Henry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Paulette (nee Mekeel), children Suellen (Eric), Wendy (Matt), Bruce (Sandy), Brian (Patti), Barbara (Jeff), Mark (Linda), 14 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Irving and Pearl Smylie, grandson Ryan Pietravoia, brothers Sanford, Leon, Jerome, Bernard, William, and sister Eleanor Vicstein. Henry was born in Cleveland OH on December 6, 1930 and enjoyed sharing many stories of his days growing up in the city where he learned the value of hard work, found his love for the sport of boxing and the love of his life, Paulette. He proudly served his country with the US Army in Korea during the Korean War. Henry was an avid lover of roses, bent lawns, big dogs, boxing and more than anything, his family. After his family, Henry’s pride and joy were his rose bushes that at one time numbered more than 100 in his yard, along with his plush bent lawn. He loved all animals but especially loved his Rottweilers Bronc, Rigzz and Vito. Henry spent countless hours training young men in the art of boxing at both the amateur and professional level. Many of his former “fighters” maintained a lasting relationship with him, checking up on him until his last days and helping in anyway they could, a true testament to the influence he had. Henry owned and operated Smylie TV Sales and Service, for 35 years in Mentor OH. In keeping with the wishes of Henry there will be no funeral services. Those wishing to make donations in Henry’s name may send them to Hospice of Heartland, 4807 Rockslide Rd, Independence OH 44131 or a charity of your choice.