Gene Smith, 79, of Woodburn, passed on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. Gene was an Eagle Scout, Navy man, former captain of City of Fort Wayne 911 for over 24 years, cherished husband, big brother, father, and grandfather. Gene also loved a good coney dog and a good burger with family and friends.

Some 75 years ago, after his family moved to Huffman Street, he was struck by some rocks from the neighbor girl asking if he could play. Not only would that day mark becoming best friends, it would start the journey of a lifetime with that neighbor girl, turn young woman, turned spouse. Gene is survived by that rock throwing neighbor girl he made his wife of 56 years, Diane (Kienzle); son Donald Smith, daughter Julie (Luke) Lengerich, grandson Ryan Smith, granddaughter Danielle (Zach) Rudolph, & granddaughter Kaitlyn (Nathan) Garstka, forever daughter-in-law Stephanie Kohrman, brother Steve (Pam) Smith, sister RuthAnn Birch, his German daughter Yvonne (Christian) Ittenbach, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life to be held at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services (6557 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46825) on Friday, October 28, 2022 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (1037 Northwood Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805) or donor’s choice.