Arthur C. Smoczynski

He was the son of the late Edmund and Florence (Wojcinski) Smoczynski of Dunkirk.

He attended school in Dunkirk graduating from Dunkirk Industrial High School in 1962. After high school he enlisted in the US Navy and served on the USS Taconic for 2 years then the Naval Reserve for another 38 years. He retired from his naval career as a Chief Petty Officer with 40 years of credited service. He enjoyed his annual get together with fellow reservists and former shipmates.

In his younger years he could be found around many of the local auto repair shops. He worked at several of them because of his love of cars. He was an avid Mopar enthusiast and loved watching NASCAR races.

In 1970 he started his career with the Dunkirk Police Department serving as a patrolman. He was a mentor to several officers during his time of service. He had a knack of finding burglaries in progress while working his many years on the overnight shift. He retired in 2002 as a Desk Sergeant.

After retirement he enjoyed his daily “patrols” of the City. He was often found on the City Pier in the morning socializing with everyone. But most of all he enjoyed spending time with family. He could never resist a homemade dessert. He had a very caring and loving heart and would lend a hand to anyone that would ask. He was always ready to give an honest opinion or advice.

He was a life member of the First Ward Falcons and Sheridan VFW.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother James Smoczynski.

He is survived by his beloved wife Elaine (Sikora) Smoczynski whom he married October 30, 1965, his son Jeffrey (Susan) Smoczynski of Dunkirk and daughter Jill (Daniel) Manzella of Dunkirk along with grandchildren Brayden Manzella, Olivia Manzella, Cassandra Smoczynski and Ashlee Smoczynski. Also surviving is his faithful companion Aggie.

Further he is survived by his sister-in-law Diane Ziegler and her children Michele Anderson, Michael Ziegler and Julie Bender. Also surviving is sister-in-law Ann Dalfonso and her daughters Lori Smoczynski and Andrea Smoczynski.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Shaeffer and the nurses and staff of the Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their wonderful care of Arthur during his time in their facility.

In accordance with Arthur’s wishes there will be no formal services. The family appreciates your love and support during this difficult time.

Memorials in his name may be made to the Lakeshore Humane Society.

As Arthur always said, “it is what it is.”

Online condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler, LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home.