John Harry "Homer" Smeltzer, 68, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024. He was born to the late Edwin R. and Isabelle (Franklin) Smeltzer Jr. in Bluffton on March 1, 1956. John graduated from Norwell High School in 1975. He proudly served in the Army National Guard. John was the former Post Commander, Honor Guard Commander and Junior Shooting Director of American Legion Post 241. He was formerly in the clown unit of the Mizpah Shrine.

John is survived by his siblings, Judy Kendrick, James (Kathy) Smeltzer, and Jeffrey Smeltzer; daughter, Holly (Adam) Bailey; grandchildren, Emily and Seth; great-granddaughter, Kinsley Grace; and a host of relatives and friends. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Gloria Ann Smeltzer, Steve Franklin, Eddie Smeltzer III, and Mary Shaw.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 7:00 pm with visitation beginning at 4:00 pm until the time of service at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services (6557 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46825). A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery (418 Westfield Drive, Bluffton, IN 46714) at 9:00 am on Friday, September 27, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 241 Honor Guard or the Northeast Honor Flight.