John “Skillet” Smith, 71, of Hamilton, IL, died Thursday, July 18, 2024 at the Carthage Memorial Hospital in Carthage, IL.
He was born on September 19, 1952 in Keokuk, IA, the son of Frank and Monta (Crawford) Smith. John graduated from Keokuk High School with the Class of 1971 and then attended Southeastern Community College in Keokuk.
On December 19, 1987, John was united in marriage to Linda Ackley in Hamilton. She survives.
He is also survived by three daughters, Taran (Nick) Manciocchi of Las Vegas, NV, Whitney (Eric) Bemis and Gina (Ross) White all of Warsaw, IL, five grandchildren, David, Rozilynn, Lillian, Eva and Christian, one brother, Tony (Donna) Smith of Warsaw, two sisters, Virginia Schabacker of Texas and Patty (Greg) Lefler of Keokuk.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
John had been employed as an electrician for BNSF Railroad for twenty-eight years, retiring in 2017. He was a member of the IBEW Union.
He was a skilled woodworker and could make anything. He loved piddling around in his workshop. John was a history buff, especially local history, and a trivia expert. He enjoyed reading the Daily Gate City newspaper, playing board games, and working on crossword puzzles. He also enjoyed his family pets.
John was devoted to his family and was a wonderful provider. He was very proud of his three daughters and his grandchildren were his pride and joy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.
The Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com
