Verne H. Smith, age 77, of Lake of the Woods, Hudson, IN, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024, at his residence.  Mr. Smith was born on June 23, 1947, in Kendallville, IN to Milton Smith and Pearl (Baldwin) Smith Walker.  In 1965, he graduated from Prairie Heights High School in rural LaGrange, IN.  Verne served his country honorably with the United States Army during the Vietnam War era.  On June 10, 1967, he married his wife of 57 years, Linda L. Penix at the Congregational Church in Orland, IN.  For 30 years, he worked as a supervisor for EMF Corporation.  For 6 years upon retirement, he worked for LaGrange County in lawn maintenance.  Verne was a Honda motorcycle enthusiast most of his life and he loved old tractors.  He was an avid NASCAR fan and Jeff Gordon memorabilia collector.  Verne enjoyed trips to Sebring, FL with his wife.  Verne was a family man, loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and spending quality time with his canine companion, Riley.

Survivors: Spouse, Linda Smith of Lake of the Woods, Hudson, IN. Mother, Pearl Walker of Fort Wayne, IN. Daughter, Kari (Eddy) Gibson of Tampa, FL. Son, Brian (Jeni) Smith of LaGrange, IN. Grandson, Joshua Gibson (Stephanie Stachell) of Fort Wayne, IN. Granddaughter, Whitney Gibson of Fort Wayne, IN. Granddaughter, Raegan Smith of LaGrange, IN. Grandson, Reese Smith of LaGrange, IN. Sister, Christine (Sonny) Schrock of Fort Wayne, IN. Brother, Steven (Irene) Smith of Hudson, IN. Brother, Neal (Carol) Smith of Huntertown, IN. Several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Verne was preceded in death by his father.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.