Louis M. Smola

Louis M. Smola passed away on May 12, 2019. He was born on June 25, 1933, in Wilbraham, MA, to the late John and Aniela (Welcz) Smola.  Louis spent 4 years enlisted in the Naval Air Force as well as serving in the reserves. Louis was employed for 27 years at Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, active in the Amalgamated Transit Union local 448, and retired as Business Agent. He continued his love of driving and transportation into his retirement, driving for the Valley Opportunity Council.  Louis was a friend of Bill’s for over 50 years and sponsored many “pigeons” over the years. He was also a member of the Memorial Square/New North Citizen’s Council in Springfield, and the Wilbraham Polish American Citizen’s Club. He was proud of his Polish Heritage, enjoyed gardening, and visiting with friends and staff at the Holyoke Soldier’s Home.

Louis leaves four daughters, Kathleen Smola of Wellfleet, Karen Merchant and her partner Stephen Bosworth of Springfield, Kristin Hodges and her partner Tom Bannish of Agawam, and Karleen Smola of St. Petersburg, FL, five grandchildren: Elissa and Amanda Merchant of Springfield, Joshua and Zachary Hodges of Agawam, Matthew Ryan Hannah of St. Petersburg, FL, and a great granddaughter, Olivia Nugent.  He was predeceased by one brother, five sisters, two nephews, Stephan and Richard Cocchi, and his former wife, Joyce Ann (Hickson) Smola. He is survived by one sister, Barbara Kuhn and her husband Donald, and a brother-in-law, Thomas Cocchi and his wife Antoinette, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Visiting hours will be held from 4-7 pm on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Indian Orchard.  The funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at 10:30 am at the funeral home followed by Mass at 11:15am at Immaculate Conception Church, Indian Orchard, followed by burial at 1pm at Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam, MA.

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