St. George
Serbian Orthodox Church
Carmichaels, PA
The Beloved Pete Smargie
July 22/August 4, 2011
by Fr. Rodney Torbic
Peter Smargie was born on the August 9, 1923, the day the Holy
Orthodox Church commemorates the Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon. Pete
was a large and gentle man. He had a commanding presence and was strong
figure in the St. George Church and the community of Masontown.
Pete was very well known in many communities for his good work at
the St. George Church and in the Masontown community. He served this country
with distinction during World War II and remained active in veterans’
affairs throughout his life. He knew first hand about war. He cherished
peace.
Pete served the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a state police
officer. He served the community of Masontown as Chief of Police. He
provided security for J&L Steel’s coal mines. Pete knew the field of local
law enforcement very well and was capable of handling situations that
commonly arose. He took an interest in the young people in the community of
Masontown and provided them with healthy activities that are remembered to
this day.
Pete was a family man to the core. He and beloved Dorothy were
married for sixty years and blessed with daughter Janice. The Serbian
Orthodox Church has been an integral par t of the lives of Pete, Dorothy and
Janice Smargie and each has been a significant contributor in their own
individual ways.
Pete served a Head Tutor at St. George Church for many years and
cared for the grounds of the St. George Church. He faithfully attended the
church services. Pete was always around the St. George Church during the
week to make sure the church was secure and in good order. He dearly missed
being able to come to church services when health condition prevented his
attending.
Pete served as the Master of Ceremonies at many celebrations of
the St. George Church. He epitomized the strong commitment to the St. George
Church by the long standing faithful members. Pete set a high standard of
commitment and care for the St. George Church. His love for the St. George
Church was obvious as was his love for his family. Pete treated people with
respect and was highly respected in return.
Pete came from a large family of brothers and sisters. All five
brothers and five sisters have preceded him in departing this life. His care
and concern for his brothers and sisters was obvious. Pete’s concern and
care for family members and friends were far-reaching to include those
located in different states.
God has blessed us with having known and had our lives touched by
Pete Smargie. God blessed Pete with his wife and daughter, his family and
friends. God blessed Pete with integrity and a sense of duty to country, to
state, community and Church. May beloved Pete rest with the righteous and
his memory be eternal.
St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, Carmichaels, July 22/August 4, 2011.
Holy Myrhr-bearer and Equal to the Apostles Mary Magdalene.