John “Ode” David Smith, age 70, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, formerly of Luverne, died Tuesday, January 16, 2024, suddenly at his home.
He was born July 18, 1953, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Jack and ElDora (Kersbergen) Smith. Ode graduated from Luverne High School in 1972. He later received his business degree from Mankato State University.
Ode married Deb Haper in 1988 in Luverne. The couple lived in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where Ode worked as a software sales associate for over 25 years.
He loved spending his summers at The Lucky Acres Campground on Lake Miltona where he could be found catching 49-inch muskees and sinking birdies on the golf course with his friends. His daughter was the light of his life, and he was most proud of her faith in Christ and her teaching career.
Ode is survived by his daughter, Abby Smith, Plymouth; two sisters, Randa (Dave) Gangestad, Luverne, and Sheila (Rob) Stegenga, Luverne; former wife, Deb Smith, Sioux Falls, South Dakota; many nieces and nephews; and his granddog, Champ.
He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister, Mary.
A time of fellowship was 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, January 23, at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Luverne. Memorial service was 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Dingmann Funeral Home in Luverne, officiated by Pastor Kirk Flaa. Burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Condolences may be sent to Abby Smith; 1127 N. Lalley Lane; Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57107.