Tharon Smith, 56, of Albion, Ind., passed away peacefully on Sept. 16, 2013, in his home.

Tharon was born Aug. 28, 1957, to Tharon Smith Sr. and Linda Steinenger in Goshen, Ind. He graduated from West Noble High School in 1975.

Tharon worked for Breyden Products in Columbia City and was an electrician. He enjoyed model building and was an avid WWII memorabilia collector. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and doing activities with his children and grandchildren. Tharon was a member of the NRA, Yankee Air Force and the Yankee Air Museum.

He is survived by five children: Tharon (Jenny) Smith III, Osceola, Ind.; Tina Coleman, Kendallville, Ind.; Heidi Graber, Nappanee, Ind.; Seth (Jolean) Smith, Warsaw, Ind.; Heather (Shawn) Barhydt, Albion; his best friend and former wife: Tammy Smith, Ligonier; 14 grandchildren; two brothers: Tim (Audrey) Smith, Goshen; Scott (Twila) Smith, Ligonier; an uncle: James Bassett; and his stepfather: Ron Steinenger.

Tharon was preceded in death by his parents, a son-in-law: Jeremy Graber; sister: Vonna; a granddaughter: Caitlyn Young; and Tharon’s special mentors: John and Dee Hancock.

Visitation will take place from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway S., Ligonier, IN. Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in c/o Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway S., Ligonier, IN 46767.