John Smietanka

Fine man, great lawyer, and dear friend. He will be missed...

I worked for John at the Berrien County Prosecutors Office from 1975 to 1981. He was a wonderful boss and an honorable man with a great sense of humor. Fond memories and my job there was never boring! Sad I missed the visitation. God´s blessings to John´s family! Sincere sympathy, Linda Karsten Fellows

I am proud to have known and worked with John for over forty years. I found him to be very bright, hard working, and most importantly, an ethical man sincerely trying to do justice. He set a very high standard as a United States Attorney for twelve years. I doubt his achievements will ever be surpassed. My sincere condolences.

What a shock to learn this . He was so wise , so kind, a great radio host, . an all around good lawyer...an honored . U. S. Attorney, .... a friend to many and my friend... I grieve with his family and many friends across the country . Hal Hardin, Nashville Tn.

John's program "With Respect" on Harbor Country Radio and WSJM was appointment listening! A fascinating array of guests, such as Hollywood screenwriter John Schulian, the late Illinois governor James "Big Jim" Thompson, former Notre Dame women's basketball coach Muffett McGraw and many others. John was skillful with deep-dive interviews that captured the best of his guests. Thanks for many hours of fascinating listening. Rest in eternal peace, John.

I came into contact with John when he was Berrien County Prosecutor and I was a Trooper Detective in the early 70's. John was instrumental in bringing about the existence of the Berrien County Metro Narcotics Squad. At times I worked closely with John and enjoyed his wit. I feel a great loss at Johns passing and though I haven't seen him in recent years did have a conversation with him last year during the Janis Sanders Cold Case investigation. A kindred spirit I will miss him. Thomas A....

I have good memories of John--always a class act, a gentleman, and a tribute to his profession. Our sympathies to his family as they experience the void that he leaves behind. May his soul rest in peace!