James "Fred" Smith

James “Fred” Smith, age 83, of Fremont, Indiana, completed his journey on this earth on Monday August 24, 2026 at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Fred anticipates heaven and considered himself a Christian.

He was born to very loving parents, Ronald and Margaret (Handy) Smith on September 22, 1942 in Angola, Indiana.

Fred graduated from Fremont High School in 1960.

He served his Country in the Indiana Army National Guard from 1964 until his honorable discharge in 1970. He was a longtime member of the Fremont American Legion Cassel Post # 257, and served as a former Post Commander. He also was a former member of the 40 & 8.

Fred married the love of his life, Sharon (Dunham) Fisher on December 12, 1967 in Fremont, Indiana. They were married for 41 years until her untimely death on December 19, 2008.

His work history included Frahm’s Marathon, S & S Oil, McNeely Homes, Martin Oil, R & W Service System and also retired in 2011 after 27 years at Foamex (FXI), in Auburn, Indiana.

His avocations were music, primarily early rock and classic country along with other local musicians under the name Smith & Co. and played for many dances and occasions throughout the Tri-State area. He also enjoyed watching Nascar, and being with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his children, Steve (Melody) Fisher of Orland, Indiana, Tom Fisher of Fremont, Indiana, Della Lautzenhiser of Fremont, Indiana and Tina Bledsoe of Angola, Indiana, grandchildren, Cory Fisher, Shanna (Seth) Moughler, Spencer (Bridget) Bledsoe and Sarah (Trevor) West, great-grandchildren, Colin Moughler, Leah West, Bexley Bledsoe, Myla West, Dylan Fisher, Devin Colyer and Hayes Bledsoe, a sister, Bonnie (Larry) Parsons of Sylvania, Ohio and long time companion, Josie Verity of Fremont, Indiana.

He was also preceded in death by a son-in-law, Kent Bledsoe.

Visitation will be held from 4 pm until 6 pm Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Beams Funeral Home, Fremont, Indiana.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 am Friday, August 28, 2026 at Beams Funeral Home, Fremont, Indiana. Rev. Jon Bruney will officiate the service.

Burial will follow at Teeters Cemetery, Fremont, Indiana with Military Honors.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to the Fremont American Legion Cassel Post # 257.