John V. Smith

John “Jack” Smith was gathered into the loving arms of his savior just shy of his 93rd birthday on February 26, 2022. John was born on March 25, 1929 in Holland, Michigan to parents Stephen and Mary Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Donna June, grandchildren Elizabeth Smith and Joshua Bryan, and great-grandchild James Ludwig.

He is survived by his brother Robert Smith, his six children: Susan (John Vance), Mark (Tom Richardson), Brian (Kathy), Peggy (Gene Bryan), Lisa (Doug Osworth) and Jeffrey (Emy), 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and his good friend June Ziegler.

John served in the Air Force from 1946-49 as an aviation mechanic, later working for several notable airlines, such as TWA (1951-86)  and America West (1986-95) in a career that spanned from the piston age to the jet age.

His mechanical abilities came in handy when he fully restored a Model A Ford. For 5 years, he also participated as a navigator in the Great American Road Race.

Jack may have been 92 but he continued to plan his next adventure until the end. Jack loved to explore new places and had been to all 50 states (49 of which were traveled via RV) as well as many other countries.  His children and grandchildren happily inherited his travel bug.

For several years Jack sang barbershop with his choral group, the Phoenicians, ultimately winning the national title in 1983.

His compassion led him to serve others participating in several mission trips to the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Russia.

Jack could often be found about town playing euchre and cribbage with his friends.  When he played with family, he was merciless but in a good way.  He was an avid Michigan State Spartans and Detroit Tigers fan.

Jack had a wicked sense of humor.  He liked to get your goat with his cheeky grin and eyes that crinkled.  But he often thoughtfully reached out with small gifts to others.  He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Randall House and Heartland Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.

Burial will be private.

A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post#169 in Tiffin on Saturday, June 4, 2022.  The hours of celebration are 11:45 AM to 1:30 PM.  A military Honor Guard Ceremony and a short service will begin at noon.  Friends and family are welcome to share memories of Jack.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Traunero Funeral Home and Crematory, 214 S. Monroe St. Tiffin, Ohio 44883 (419) 447-3113.  To send condolences to the family, go to www.traunerofuneralhome.com.