WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Pa. – A popular Westmoreland County businessman died unexpectedly on his way home from Seven Springs Resort on Saturday.
Mark Smail, 62, was a third-generation co-owner of Smail Auto Group, a family car dealership on Route 30 in Westmoreland County.
According to the county coroner's office, he was the passenger in the car when he became unresponsive. He was taken to hospital where he later died.
“I think people are waking up this week and this weekend with a lot of sadness in their hearts,” Westmoreland County Commissioner Doug Chew said. “It is devastating to hear what happened to Mark Smail over the weekend. His family is really involved in the community and it will be a great loss.”
Additionally, county leaders say he was an incredible philanthropist.
“He was a strong supporter of the Westmoreland Food Bank, he was a strong supporter of my colleague, commissioner.” [Sean] Kertes' “Grow Westmoreland” and the inclusion of more young people in the workforce. He really touched a lot of lives in this area.”
Kertes agreed.
“Mark will not only be missed as a small business owner, but his compassion, caring and giving to the community as a whole will be missed by all of us here in Westmoreland County,” Kertes told Channel 11's Andrew Havranek.
Smail's daughter, Taylor Smail, thanked the community for their support on Facebook on Saturday.
“As many of you have probably heard, today we lost the worst man on the planet. “It was a completely unexpected accident and we are all in complete shock,” she wrote. “I appreciate everyone who is standing up for and supporting our family during this difficult time. We will take some time to mourn the loss of the greatest man. I would like to thank you all for your understanding. We love and miss you so much, Dad.”
Dan DeBone, the president and CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce, sent Channel 11 this statement:
“During this difficult time, our thoughts are first and foremost with Mark Smail’s family, friends and the entire Smail Automotive team. Mark's contributions to the company and the local community will be remembered with great admiration and gratitude.
“Mark Smail was not only a successful entrepreneur, but also a dedicated community leader who played a critical role in promoting economic growth and community development. His influence extended far beyond the business sphere as he was a philanthropist and advocate for community well-being. Through various initiatives and charitable donations, he worked tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of many people, and his absence leaves a void that will be felt throughout the community.
“Thanks to Mark’s commitment to our region, he won the 2021 Annual Business of the Year award.” This award is not only about the value and success of the organization, but also about how Mark gave back as a leader, developing trust and love throughout the region.
“As President/CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, I had the privilege of working closely with Mark. His leadership and vision have been invaluable to the business community. In the wake of this tragic loss, the Chamber of Commerce is committed to honoring Mark's legacy by continuing to support local businesses and promote the values he stood for. We will work with the Smail Automotive team to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the quality standards set by Mark.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this profound loss and we will strive to carry on his legacy in a spirit of unity and resilience.”
Smail's visitation is scheduled for Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Clement L. Pantalone Funeral Home.
A funeral Mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensburg.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Paws Across Pittsburgh Animal Rescue.
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