John Smith

John Avery Smith, age 66, of Boyne City, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, surrounded by family after a hard-fought one-week battle with aggressive cancer. He was born on June 28, 1959, to Jack and Maxine (Boone) Smith. He married the love of his life, Tami, on May 23, 1981.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Tameron Smith, and their three daughters, Amanda(Benjamin)Mathers, Amy(Rorie)Zettel, and Ashley(Thomas Jr.)Aemmer.

John was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren. His oldest grandchild, Erin(Matthew)Smith, who was legally adopted by John and Tami and was loved and raised as their own. His grandchildren also include Averilyn Mathers, Madison(Noel) Ward, Benjamin Mathers, Blake Root, Whitney Root, Thomas Aemmer III, Timothy Aemmer, and Hunter Zettel . John also had one special great nephew, Wyatt Sabin, who he considered his grandchild in every way that mattered. He was also blessed with one great grandchild, Jacqueline, who brought him a great deal of joy. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Ellen Stanton, sister-in-law Annette (Scott) Mariner, and brother-in-law Lawrence (Melanie) Stanton; and many nieces and nephews

John spent his life as a plumber and a hobby farmer. He didn’t take long to fix things, he just knew how to do them right. He loved his family fiercely and never sugarcoated a thing, you always knew exactly where you stood with him.

At home, John loved the simple life: hanging out with family, keeping up the tradition of pizza at B.C. almost every Saturday, working with his hands, being outdoors, and making people laugh. He had a sharp sense of humor and could turn even a rough day into a smile. Family meant everything to him, and he always made time for the people he loved most.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Maxine Smith; his two sisters, Jackie and Oreen; a beloved niece, Janice; and most importantly, his loyal companion, Big Jake, who was always by his side.

John will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 5, at 11:00 a.m. at The Eagle’s in Boyne City. Lunch will be served at the conclusion of the service.

Memorial contributions may be made directly to the family.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com