John W. Smith, 86, of Laconia, passed away on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at Lakes Region General Hospital, in Laconia, after a brief illness.
Born on February 13, 1927 in Weymouth, MA, he was the son of the late John W. and Viola (Harris) Smith, Sr. John was raised in Weymouth and attended local schools. Upon graduation of high school he enlisted with the U.S. Army and fought with honor and courage in the European Theatre during WWII.
John was an auto mechanic who worked for several garages throughout his career; his last position was with the Ranks Auto Sales & Repair, Co., in MA. John was also a skilled boat builder; he and his grandfather built many boats together throughout the years.
John enjoyed salt water fishing, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
He is predeceased by his sister, Myrtle Callahan.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Jean B. (MacKenzie) Smith, of Weirs Beach; four sons, William Smith and wife Elaine, of Leominster, NH, Kenneth Smith and wife Holly, of Granton, NH, Peter Smith and wife Sandra, of Avon, MA, and Paul Smith and significant other, Cheryl, of Laconia; five grandchildren, Matthew, Nicholas, Sierra, Jasslyn, and Sadie.
Services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice.