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Dean Smelker

October 17, 2017
Plainwell, MI

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Dean L. Smelker, age 77, of Plainwell, MI passed away Tuesday morning, October 17, 2017 at the Rose Arbor Hospice Residence. Dean was born January 11, 1940 in Grand Rapids, MI the son of the late Leighton and Lois (Irwin) Smelker. Dean was a veteran serving in the U.S. Navy from 1961-1963. He was employed for 28 years with the Upjohn Company in the sheet metal shop until his retirement. Dean enjoyed fishing, custom metal work, motorcycles, and custom building anything he could. Dean also enjoyed sharing his talents with his children and grandchildren. On March 20, 1981 he was united in marriage to his loving wife, Joy (Herder) who survives. Also surviving are his children, Scott (Serih) Smelker, Pam Smelker (John Leversee); grandchildren, Nick (Kelli), Ryan, Cody, Travis, Garrett; father-in-law, Vern Herder; sister-in-law, Bev Smelker; brother and sisters-in-law, Jim (Lois) Herder, Mike (Sue) Herder, Dave (Julie) Herder, Doug (Cheryl) Herder; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Dean was preceded in death by and infant daughter; Theresa; his parents; brother and sister, Bruce Smelker and Bonnie Misak; and mother-in-law, Lois Herder. Services will be held at 11:00am Saturday, October 21 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. A time of fellowship will be held immediately after the service in the Family Reception Centre at the funeral home. Friends may meet the family on Saturday from 9:30-11:00am and after the service during the luncheon. Interment will be in Ft. Custer National Cemetery on Monday, October 23 at 1:00pm. Memorials may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.