Dr. Charles Ernest

Smith

Charles passed away on November 5, 2026. He was born on December 15, 1934, in Angola, IN. He is joining many of his friends and relatives in heaven, including his parents, brother (Bud), and son-in-law (Rob Denson). He is survived by his wife, Myrna Louise Smith (DeWitt), whom he married in 1954, and his daughters, Shannon Denson (Rob) and Laura Ellinwood (Steve). He has five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Chuck and Myrna were married for 72 years.
Charles attended Waterloo High School and graduated in 1952. He then attended Indiana University in Bloomington and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1957. He then attended Indiana University School of Dentistry, graduating in 1961.
After graduating from dental school, Chuck, Myrna, and Shannon moved to Washington State, where Chuck was appointed dental officer on the Colville Reservation, working for the Indian Health Service. Laura was born while Chuck and Myrna served on the reservation.
The family returned to Indiana, where Chuck served in many capacities in the dental profession. He served in private practice, at the Fort Wayne State Developmental Center, at the Indiana University School of Dentistry teaching Community Public Health, and volunteering, providing care at the Knightstown Soldiers and Sailors Children's Home. He spent most of his career, 31 years, with the Indiana State Department of Health as a dental officer, finishing his time there as the director.
Dr. Smith was more than a dentist; he was an adventurer, water and snow skier. (co-founded the Hamilton Lake Ski Club), kayaker, motorcyclist, woodworker, including building two log homes. He was an exceptional husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa who really enjoyed his Coke, potato chips, and chocolate.
He will be truly missed.
A funeral service for Chuck will take place on Friday, November 13th 2026 at 1 pm with visitation beginning 2 hours prior at 11 am at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St. Burial will follow at Corunna Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Indiana University School of Dentistry - Fort Wayne Priority Fund c/o IU Foundation, P.O. Box 6460, Indianapolis, IN 46206-6460.