John R. Smith

John R. Smith, 94, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, at his home. He was born November 1, 1929 in Putnam County to James and Nellie (Mullett) Smith. On July 15, 1951 he married his high school sweetheart, Donna Wert, and they celebrated over 70 years of marriage until she passed away April, 2023.

John is survived by two daughters, Denise Smith, and Becky (Tom) Timmons, four grandchildren, Kim Caton, Chadd Caton, Aaron (Kay Lyn) Euckert, and Mindy Euckert, two great grandchildren, Ryan Harrison, and Lily Southard, and step great grandchild, Shannon McDermott.  In addition to his parents and wife, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Debra.

John was a graduate of Columbus Grove High School.  He served in the United States Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Randolph, and upon discharge was employed at Excello in Bluffton for 37 years. He was a member of UAW Local 1327, serving many years as Recording Secretary for Region 2B. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason, Scottish Rite Valley of Toledo, a Life Member of the American Legion Post #516, and former member of Rufus Putnam F&AM #364.

He loved going to estate sales and auctions, hunting mushrooms, and watching the Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Indians. John and Donna were members of the Cairo United Methodist Church.

Per his wishes there will be a private family service at a later date. The family would like to thank the caring staff from Lima Memorial Home Health, Interim Hospice Care, and Hartman Sons Funeral Home. Memorial donations can be made to the donors choice.

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