Joseph M. Smola Obituary (2017) - Schuylerville, New York

Detective Joseph M. Smola, age 61, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2017 after a strong courageous battle with cancer. He is predeceased by his grandparents: Michael and Alice Smola and Stanley and Belma Jones. He is survived by his loving wife, Patti Smola; his parents, Michael and Barbara (Jones) Smola; his daughter, Shena (Ron) Schultz; his son, Joseph Smola II; his granddaughter, Madelyn Rose Smola; his siblings: Mickey (Jim) Renczkowski, Carolyn Smola, Nick (Patti) Smola, Robin Cassell, Robert Smola, and Traci Smola; in addition to six step-grandchildren and their families, numerous nieces and nephews and a brotherhood of law enforcement officers. Joe was born in the City of Syracuse, New York to Michael and Barbara (Jones) Smola; and was a graduate of Corcoran High School. He was the eldest son of seven children; and he proudly served with the Syracuse Police Department for over 28 years. During his appointment to the Syracuse Police Department he served commendably in various units within the department. His last assignment was as a detective within the Criminal Investigations Division: Gang Violence Task Force. As a result of his excellent service throughout his career, Joe received two Divisional Commendations, thirteen Bureau Commendations, and twelve Departmental Commendations along with the Meritorious Service Award. He always served with commitment and distinction and was beloved by all his fellow officers. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2017 at 1:00pm at The American Legion, 110 Academy St., Syracuse, NY 13207-2842 In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Madelyn Rose Scholarship Fund, 5 Schuyler Island Dr, Schuylerville, NY, 12871 c/o Patricia Smola.