SMETHPORT — William “Spike” Frank Preston, 78, of Smethport peacefully passed away Sunday (June 15, 2025), with his loving family by his side.

He was born May 3, 1947, in Olean, N.Y., a son of William and Doris (Knapp) Preston. Spike graduated from Ten Broeck Academy in 1966. Soon after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army.

Spike married the love of his life, Sharon Kay Puff Davis, on Sept. 28, 1968, in Franklinville, N.Y.

Spike was a Vietnam veteran. He was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on Dec. 23, 1967. He also received the Purple Heart for battle wounds received, in keeping with the traditions of the military services. Spike earned the Gallantry Cross from the Republic of Vietnam. Spike was honorably discharged Oct. 18, 1968.

After 30 years of service, Spike retired from Petrowax of Farmers Valley.

In his spare time, Spike loved to hunt, fish, trap and golf. He was a huge Buffalo Bills fan. He enjoyed spending time with his family and cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at sporting events.

In addition to his wife, Sharon, he is survived by two children, Lance “Lanny” (Dina) Davis and Shellie (Jack McCammon) Blauser; grandchildren Amber (Jason) Whitehead, Tarah (Josh) Rounsville, Tasha (Eddie Boser) Lipps, Alexandra Markardt, Lance (Merisa) Davis, Nathan Blauser, Ryan McCammon and Zach (Aurora) McCammon; 15 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents, Spike was preceded in death by two daughters, Kellie Lipps and Kimberly Lippert; a sister, Veronica “Ronnie” Dallas; and a brother, Stephen “Skip” Preston.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday (June 20, 2025) at Hilltop Baptist Church, Gifford, with the Rev. Max Simms, pastor, officiating. Military honors will be accorded by American Legion John Berg Post 976 of Crosby.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under direction of Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be made at hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.