GREENVILLE—The late Keith Smith was remembered with the planting of a hardy, young White Oak tree that will reach 80 feet tall and 100 feet wide at maturity and will live hundreds of years, honoring Keith’s legacy for generations to come on the grounds of the Great Darke County Fair.
“It’s a pleasure for me to be here today and share in this planting of the tree in Keith’s honor,” said Greenville Mayor Jeff Whitaker. “It’s a great day.”
Smith was a Veteran of the United States Army, a 1975 graduate of Greenville Senior High School, and owner/operator of Keith’s Service and Towing and The Don’s Pizza.
Smith was an active member of the community, serving on the Darke County Fair Board and Greenville City Council, as well as many other community activities, including American Legion Post 140, Darke County Fish and Game Club, Masonic Lodge 143, Scottish Rite, and the Darke County Shrine Club.
“Keith Smith was a great man who served our community at large,” said Kathy Beam Fitzwater Tree and Lawn Care HR manager. “Today we dedicate and plant this memorial tree in his honor as a lasting tribute for his family, friends as well as the dedication to the Darke County Fair Board and countless other organizations and civic duties with whom he was involved and lives he touched.”
A granite plaque will be placed at the White Oak Tree base at the South Show Arena on the Great Darke County Fairgrounds.
Fitzwater Outdoor Maintenance donated the tree and labor for the installation.
“David Furlong owned the business up until two years ago and remains President of the company,” Beam noted. We became an employee-owned company, and David continues to give back to the community. Our employees enjoy it and understand our commitment and compassion for the community.”
“We appreciate Fitzwater’s donating the tree and plaque for us,” said Laura Ahrens, Fair Manager. “They also provided one for Dave Niley last year, and we are pleased to honor Keith Smith this year and hope to continue this in the future.”
