In the quiet city of Joplin, Missouri, the long and loving journey of Arline Smolik, an 87-year-old female, and her husband of 69 years, William, came to a tragic and abrupt end on Saturday, October 9, 2021. The couple, who had built a life together filled with family, creativity, and service, were both found deceased on the same day. While official sources on the specific circumstances are scarce, their passing has been referred to as a result of gun violence.
Arline, born on August 14,
1934, was a dedicated homemaker and a talented artist. She possessed a unique skill for sculpting, creating cherished keepsakes for families by sculpting figures of their children from photographs. Her artistic endeavors were a familiar sight at art fairs throughout Indiana and Illinois. Beyond her art, she had a passion for gardening and generously volunteered her time as a Master Gardener.
William, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps who served in the Korean War, had a long and successful career with Illinois Bell Telephone. He was a man of many interests, enjoying woodworking, creating stained glass, and was an avid reader. Together, they were active members of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin.
Despite the violent nature of their deaths, details regarding any investigation, potential suspects, or arrests have not been made publicly available through online sources. The narrative of their final moments remains untold, leaving a void in the story of a couple who had shared a lifetime of experiences. They are survived by their three children and numerous grandchildren, who are left to remember them for the rich and full lives they led.
