John was born on April 28, 1967 in Gregory, South Dakota to Martin and Mary Jane Smith.
He went to the Lucas Elementary School, then on to Burke High School. John graduated in 1985. After graduation he went to SDSU in Brookings, SD and graduated in 1992 with a degree in Arts and Sciences.
After graduation he helped his dad Martin farm. After his dad passed away he continued to run the family farm.
John was baptized at the Burke Baptist Church.
He enjoyed his farm life and received honors at the state fair as a century farmer. John loved and appreciated his family and everyone around him. He will be greatly missed by everyone.