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John Smith Obituary
John Putnam "J.P." Smith, of Sylvania, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024, peacefully surrounded by family in the comfort of his home. He was born on January 20, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Kenneth and Anna Smith.
J.P. attended Start High School, where he graduated in 1968. He proudly served as the Coast Guard Reserve, retiring as Lieutenant Commander. He also retired as Sergeant at the Toledo Police Department, where he was dedicated, hardworking, and respected. He had obtained his Bachelors degree from the University of Toledo. Prior to his retirement from the police department, he went to law school at night, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1998. He continued working as an attorney for the next 25 years.
A man of faith, he was a lifelong and active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. His faith was very important to him and all aspects of his day to day life. J.P. was an avid collector of many things: train photos, stamps, and cars. He loved getting out on the golf course, traveling, his church, helping others', and above all, his family. The time spent together and the memories created will forever be missed by his loved ones. J.P.'s love and infectious smile will forever be missed by those who knew him. This is not goodbye, but we will see you again!
Those left to forever cherish his memory are his loving wife, Diane Smith, whom he married on May 6, 1983; children, Lori (Jody) Smith, Jen (Mike) Murphy, Rob (Alicia) Smith, and Brian (Lisa) Bohlen; four-legged companion, Ricky; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister, Mary (Terry) Zeitner; brother-in-laws, David (Cheryl) Rajner, Allen (Lisa) Rajner, and Tom Fuller; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, J.P. was reunited with his sister, Dorothy McCarthy.
There will be a memorial service to honor J.P. on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 4030 Douglas Road, Toledo, Ohio 43613, with Pastor Melissa Steineck officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Aldersgate United Methodist Church in J.P.'s memory.
To share a memory of J.P. or leave a special message for his family, please visit
www.NewcomerToledo.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Smith
Butch Bloomfield
September 6, 2024
To the family of JP. I was just trying to call him and found out he passed away. I lived over by Mercy Hospital in those days when I met him working Unit 20 with Richard Kennedy. I worked around town working security which Unit 20 covered. JP was great officer and my friend. What a great personality he had which I will always remember. I'm so sorry for the family's loss.
Kerry Beringhaus
July 27, 2024
I served with Smitty in the Coast Guard COTP Unit from '73-76. I haven't known many guys with more energy and determination. He was a piece of work.
Larry & Judy Vienhage
February 19, 2024
Diane, we are so sorry to hear about J.P.´s passing. He was a good guy and dear friend. We enjoyed visiting with you & JP when you were in FL & when we were in Toledo. Going to miss him dearly.
Mike Mahnke
January 25, 2024
Ron, Jenny and family,
My condolences for your loss your dad was a great man. May your memories help comfort you in this time.
Jeff Herrick
January 22, 2024
JP was a great friend to our father and family. Condolences to his family.
The Herrick's
Tom Yoder
January 18, 2024
An honorable attorney and a good man. A delight to work with.
Jim,Kathy,Candi and Gilbert
January 17, 2024
JP We were saddened to hear of your passing.You were a friend that helped with a listening ear and legal advice and you were a honorable man.Thank you.To the family we are sorry for your loss.Until we meet again JP.
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