SURPRISE, Ariz. — Virgil L. Smith of Surprise, Ariz., left this life March 13, after 85 adventurous and happy years. He was well known in the Pawnee Rock area as a rural mail carrier and, also, served as postmaster, insurance  agent, and tax preparer. He was married to his wife, Joan, for 62 years.
He was an avid traveler, gardener, stamp collector and Phoenix Suns fan.
Survivors include his wife, Joan; three sons, Larry (Cora), Rob (Lynn), Jared (DeDe); eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Elrick and Clara (Ewy); brother, Charles; and a granddaughter.
A private service will be held. Memorial gifts may be forwarded to Mayo Clinic Department of Development in Arizona, 13400 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85259.

Great Bend (Kan) Tribune, March 31, 2013*