John W. Smith, 70, of Fort Wayne, died Thursday, July 30, 2009 at home with his family by his side. Born in Tiprell, TN he was the son of the late John and Ola Smith. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force. John retired in 2002 after 37 years with B.F. Goodrich, he then continued part-time for the Fort Wayne Auto Auction.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Nina “Liz” Smith; sons, Terry (Beverly) Smith of Shelbyville, Greg (Mikki) Smith of Fort Wayne, and Merle (Rachael) Smith of Butler; grandchildren, Terry (Shelley), Heather, Melissa, Alexandra and Hayley Smith; step-grandsons: Kyle and Ryan Rockey, great grandson: Austin Johnson; very special great nephew, Zacky Duncan; and foster granddaughter, Ashlyn.

Service was at 11:00 a.m. Monday, Aug. 3, 2009 at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven. Chaplain Karen Kosberg officiating. Calling was also 2-4 and 6- 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Burial in I.O.O.F. Cemetery, New Haven. Military graveside honors by U.S. Air Force.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer memorials to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, Parkview Home Health and Hospice, or Riley Children’s Hospital.

E. Harper & Son Funeral Home in charge.