Ryan T. Smith, 23, a resident of 122 Riverside Drive, Cooperstown died peacefully Monday, March 16, 2015.

Born December 23, 1991, he was the beloved son of Chris and Carmen Lechner Smith.

Ryan was a 2010 graduate of Franklin High School.

Upon completion of his education, he enlisted with the U. S. Army; where he earned rank of SP-4. He attended basic training at Ft. Benning, GA. Upon completion of basic training, he was reassigned to Ft. Lee, VA; where he was formally instructed as a machinist, and he excelled in welding and fabrication. He was once again reassigned to the Scofield Barracks in Hawaii; before being deployed as part of Operation Enduring Freedom to Afghanistan. While serving in combat in Afghanistan, Ryan was highly decorated; earning several medals, ribbons and citations of distinction for his bravery and exemplary service to our country. He was honorably discharged from active duty in June 0f 2014.

Upon quietly returning home, Ryan was employed as a welder and fabricator at Venango Steel in Franklin.

Ryan loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, golfing and bowling; but more than anything the fun times he was able to share with his son, Tyler; especially teaching him to fish.

He was a longtime member of the National Rifle Association.

He was married December 26, 2010 in the Grace United Methodist Church of Rocky Grove to the former: Allison Virginia Bell, who survives.

In addition to his wife, Ryan is survived by his dear son: Tyler Benjamin Smith, at home. Also surviving are his parents: Chris and Carmen Smith; his maternal grandparents: Wayne and Silvia Dolan, all of Franklin.

Also surviving is his father-in-law: Michael Bell of Knox and a step mother-in-law: Karol King of Rocky Grove; in addition to many other loving extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents: Clifford and Edith Smith.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of his family, with full military honors accorded by the members of the V.E.T.S. Funeral Honor Guard of Franklin.

Burial will be in Cooperstown Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed to the funeral home to help defray the funeral expenses for his family.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin.

Please visit: www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information and to leave your personal note of condolence.