Earle D. Smith, 83, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away early Sunday morning, January 15, 2017 at his home.

Earle was born in Waco, Texas on February 4, 1933. He was the son of Dr. Leslie McKnight and Ruby (Wood) Smith. He was raised and educated in El Paso, graduated from El Paso High School. He then attended and graduated from the University of Houston with a Business Degree. Earle joined the United States Navy for a short time before his medical discharge.

He was united in marriage to Martha Jean White on October 2, 1970 in Houston, Texas. The couple owned and operated a boat shop, Performance Jet Boat Manufacturers. Earle was a Professional Jet Boat racer and held two records, the SDBA and the NJBA in the 70's and 80's. The couple left El Paso in 1985 and owned and operated a smaller shop in Hot Springs, Arkansas before moving to Winfield in 1997 to be near family.

Earle enjoyed anything that had to do with cars, boats and motors. He enjoyed sprint car racing and following his retirement, took up building remote control boats. He was a member of the Methodist Church and several boat clubs.

His family includes:
His wife: Jean Smith of Winfield;
His daughter: Joy Bruce and husband, Larry of Winfield;
His son: Stephen Smith of Houston, TX; and
His grandchildren: Rachael Bruce and Rick Schiff.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will hold private memorial services at a later date. Miles Funeral Service in Winfield, Kansas is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial has been established in Earle's name for the COPD Foundation. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.