David Eugene Smith, age 82, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away at home peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025. David was born on June 19, 1943, in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Elmer and Flora Smith. He is a proud graduate of the Fort Wayne Northside High School, Class of 1961. David attended IU/PU Fort Wayne from 1962 to 1964, receiving an Associates Degree in Architectural Engineering. In 1964, he joined the US Air Force, serving as a Sergeant until 1967.
On June 21, 1969, he married the love of his life, Dana Bentz. They were married for 56 years. David had a number of positions in the automobile industry for over 30 years. He had many interests: NASCAR, the Indianapolis Colts, and a love of tools and art. He was a proud member of Mission Church, American Legion Post 47, and Summit City Masonic Lodge No. 170.
He will be remembered by his wife of 56 years, Dana G. Smith; daughter, Debra (Aaron) Vega of Holyoke, MA; son, Douglas (Joy) Smith of Elizabeth City, NC; grandchildren, Lexi, Destiny, Courtney, Odin, Kolbj and Ciara; great-grandchild, Kylan; and brother, Gregory Smith of Fort Wayne, IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service with military honors will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at D.O. McComb and Sons Funeral Homes - Pine Valley Park, 1320 East Dupont Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Monday, July 7, 2025, at the funeral home. Burial will be held at Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Memorial Contributions may be directed to Mission Church or Shriners Hospital for Children.
