SMITH, COLLINS, GORDON

Posted by Carolyn Schwab on Sunday, October 15, 2006 at 08:53:43 :

Independent Journal
Tuesday, January 19, 1954
page 5

JOHN T. (JACK)SMITH

John T. (Jack) Smith, elevator operator in the Albert building for more than a quarter century, and a colorful Marin personality, died of a blood clot in the heart, Coroner Frank Keaton reported today. A native of New York, he was 72.

An autopsy was conducted after he was found dead yesterday morning at his home, 1141 Mission Avenue, where he lived alone. His wife, the late Rose Ann Smith, died about five years ago.

Smith served in the Navy during World War I, then worked as engineer for the Northwestern Pacific ferries between Sausalito and San Francisco about 30 years ago. While checking the paddle wheel on the ferry boat "Tamalpais", Smith lost a leg when somebody turned on the engine and set the paddle wheel in motion.

Accoring to his stepson, George S. Collins of San Rafael, Smith appeared to be in good health until stricken yesterday. Smith also leaves two other stepsons, Robert J. Collins and Stephen Collins, both of San Francisco. He was also the stepfather of the late William Collins. He was the loving grandfather of Joan Collins and Margaret Gordon.

He was a member of the San Rafael Elks, Wilkins Post of the American Legion and the Marin Rod and Gun Club.

Funeral services will be held at 9:15 a.m. Thursday from Keaton's Mortuary, San Rafael, followed by requiem high mass at St. Raphael's Church at 9:30. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Rosary will be recited at 8 o'clock tomorrow night.