Duane Norman Smith, age 63, of Moosic and formerly of Taylor, passed away Thursday morning shortly after arrival to Geisinger C.M.C. in Scranton due to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. His beloved wife, Kim (Webb) Smith, preceded him in death on July 21, 2012, just short of the couple’s 30th wedding anniversary.
Born on February 16, 1958, Duane was the loving son of Joan (Rimbey) Ianniccari and husband Jack of Avoca and Clarence Smith and wife Joan of Taylor. A 1976 graduate of Pittston Area High School, Duane worked for Parodi Cigar Co. and Ingersoll Rand before most recently working for Avis Car Rental Co.
A lifelong sports fan, Duane was a longtime softball player and a member of the Spike Island “Spuds.” A loyal Philadelphia Phillies fan, he also loved NASCAR auto racing and Dale Earnhardt. He would never pass up an opportunity to go fishing, his favorite hobby of all.
He was a good-natured, hard working and genuinely good person who handled much adversity throughout his life. Taken too soon from his loved ones, he will be forever missed.
He is also survived by his two sons, Michael Smith and wife Stephanie of Exeter and Eric Smith of Moosic; his six siblings, Kevin Smith of Avoca, David Smith and wife Carolyn of Avoca, Mark Ianniccari and wife Jamie of Shavertown; Jack Ianniccari and wife Liz of Shavertown, David Ianniccari of Avoca and Stephanie Smith of Scranton; many nieces and nephews; and his loving pup, “Stewie.”
His twin brother and best friend, Donald “Donnie” P. Smith, also preceded him in death.
A celebration of Duane’s life is set for Wednesday at 3:00 PM at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge, with services to be conducted by Rev. Dr. Michael Shambora. Family and friends may pay their respects on Wednesday from noon until 3:00 PM at the funeral home.
