John J. Smith, 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday April 8, 2012. He was born on Oct. 13, 1928 to John and Nellie Smith in Waynesfield, Ohio. On October 20, 1951, he married Bernadette (Bonnie) Christen who preceded him in death in 2004. Mr. Smith was a U.S Army Veteran of World War II, and owned and operated Smith Brothers Tuck Pointers, Inc., in Battle Creek for 52 years. He was a life-time member of the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers. His hobby of breeding and training sulky racehorses grew in size and respect as he competed at tracks in Chicago, Detroit, Jackson, and Swartz Creek. He was known not only for his horsemanship, but also for his kindness to his horses. John was an avid gardener, sports fan, and student of natural medicine. Survivors include four daughters, Christena (Tim Birch) Smith of Worcester, MA, Laura (Greg) Smith of Waynesfield, OH., Barbara (Matthew) Merlihan-Sherwood of Ceresco, MI, Beverly K. Smith of Battle Creek, MI, and Karen (Ray) Hale of Columbiaville, MI; and one son, John C. Smith of Grand Rapids; brothers Roger Smith of Lima, OH; Morris Smith of Marshall, MI; sisters Lois Leedy of Lima, OH, and JoAnn (Maurice) Duggins of Waynesfield, OH; and eight grandchildren: Nelle Smith, Claire (Jordan) Striff, Peter, and Boone Smith; Lindsay, John and Audrey Merlihan; and Ben Clark. He was preceded in death by siblings Dwight, Bernard, Merle, Betty, Ralph and Carl Smith. A graveside memorial service will be held on Friday, April 13, at 1:00p.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 W. Dickman Road, Augusta, MI. Arrangements are by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home.
