James "Jim" Gilbert Smarko

James “Jim” Gilbert Smarko was born February 4, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri to James and Theresa (Lang) Smarko. He grew up in St. Louis and graduated from McBride High School with the class of 1958. Jim enlisted into the United States Army and served his country faithfully until his honorable discharge. During his time in the military, he obtained rank as a sergeant and earned many medals, decorations, and awards. Jim was united in marriage to Judy Layton in August 1962 and to this union blessed with five children: Eric, Jill, Deanna, Kirk, and Neil. He was a devoted father and took great pride in his family. Jim later met Kerry (Mader) Fehrenbach, and after twelve years of dating, they were united in marriage on February 13, 1998, in St. Charles, Missouri, and to this union he gained two children: Tracy and Patrick. Jim and Kerry shared thirty-five years of laughter and memories before her passing on September 21, 2021. Jim furthered his education with Washington University obtaining his bachelor’s degree in science and chemical engineering. He then received his master’s in engineering management with Missouri S&T. Jim started his working career as an engineer with Nooter Corporation, he also worked for McDonnel Douglas where he was a part of the Skylab project, then retiring from Monsanto. For the last fifteen years, Jim owned and operated his consulting firm, MO Associates. Jim was a good, honest, trustworthy, and hard-working man of integrity. After retirement, Jim and Kerry moved to Lenox, Missouri where they enjoyed many happy years together on Smarko Farms. Jim found his true passion in farming and enjoyed his days in the fields and working with his pecan trees and animals. He liked to fish and hunt, especially with his sons. Jim loved his family and cherished the time spent with them; he adored his grandchildren and treasured the memories they made together. Jim departed this life on January 24, 2022, in Salem, Missouri at the age of eighty-one years. He leaves behind to cherish his memories, loving children: Eric Smarko and wife Karen of Indianapolis, IN, Kirk Smarko of Tampa, FL, Neil Smarko and wife Brenda of St. Louis, MO, Jill Peterson and husband Mark of East Moline, IL, Deanna Doak and husband Richard of St. Louis, MO; children of loving departed spouse Kerry: Tracy Fehrenbach and partner Jason Torres of Chicago, IL, Patrick Fehrenbach and partner Jessica Morris of St. Louis, MO; grandchildren: Lauren, J.P., Karl, Kian, Torin, Shaelyn, Kyle, Evan, Alba, Leti, Alex, and Spencer; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death, loving wife: Kerry (Mader) Smarko; and parents: James and Theresa Smarko. Jim was a man of faith and will be remembered for his giant heart and dedication to his family and friends. Funeral Services for James “Jim” Gilbert Smarko were held Saturday, January 29, 2022 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Song selection played was “Peace in the Valley”. Serving as Pallbearers were his loving family and dear friends. Burial was in the Edgar Springs Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

James "Jim" Gilbert Smarko

February 4, 1940 - January 24, 2022