Dennis G. Smith

DENNIS G. SMITH Dennis G. Smith, age 65, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer. Born on August 8, 1960, in Van Wert, to Willard "Bill" and Dorothy (Stuckey) Smith. Dennis was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, known for his kindness and unwavering spirit. He was a machinist at Danfoss in Van Wert, with 23 years of service. Dennis was a member of the Van Wert County Outdoorsmen Association, where he found joy in nature and camaraderie with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. He had a passion for shooting and cherished his lifelong love for the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds. His loyal dog, Emma, held a special place in his heart. Family was of utmost importance to Dennis, and he treasured the time spent with his wife, Laura, children, and grandchildren. He and Laura made lasting memories together, especially during their memorable trip to Europe, a journey they were grateful to have shared. He is survived by his wife, Laura (Crowley-Fitzsimmons) Smith of Van Wert; his children, Erin (Tim) Jones of Van Wert, Luke (Lula Caudill) Smith of Mooresville, Indiana, Cory Fitzsimmons of Van Wert and Valerie Fitzsimmons of Celina, Ohio; grandchildren, Nick Fitzsimmons, Hayden (Cassidy Stoller) Marsee, Delanei Jackson, Reide (Zada Walker) Jackson, Jasmine Jones, Kalyssa Jones, Wesson Smith, Remington Smith, Samuel Smith and Layla Sterrett; a great-granddaughter, Henzley Marsee; a brother, David (Sarah) Smith of Van Wert; and sisters, Darlene (Ray) Young of Convoy and Lori (Jack) Wilson of Van Wert. He was preceded in death by his parents. Dennis's positivity and warmth touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered for his efforts to make the world a better place. He was a source of inspiration to all who knew him, consistently lifting those around him with his encouraging words and genuine kindness. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Ron Johnson officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Van Wert County. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 2:00 PM on Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dennis's memory to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org. Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com. Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.