Stephen P. Smelser

Wind Advisory issued January 9 at 5:54AM EST until January 9 at 4:00PM EST by NWS Wilmington OH (details ...)

* WHAT...Southwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
* WHERE...Auglaize, Darke, Hardin, Logan, Mercer, and Shelby Counties.
* WHEN...Until 4 PM EST this afternoon.
* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

Special Weather Statement issued January 9 at 3:26AM EST by NWS Wilmington OH (details ...)

Occasional wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph are expected today.
Winds will mainly be out of the south early this morning, before switching to the west during the late morning and early afternoon.
Secure loose objects, and use caution if driving a high-profile vehicle.

Thursday, January 8th, 2026

Stephen P. Smelser

Steve Smelser, 74, of Winchester, IN, formerly of Celina passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026.

He was born on February 26, 1951 at Otis Hospital in Celina, OH, the son of Gordon and Ruth (Runyon) Smelser.

Steve married Sherry Evens on January 27, 1973, and she passed on May 20, 1999. Together they raised three children who survive, Michelle (Erick) Herron of Indianapolis, IN, Jennifer Smelser of Exton, PA, and Brian (Rochelle) Smelser of Corona, CA and four grandchildren, Piper, Stella, Saylor and Jaxin. Also surviving is one sister, Susie (Jeff) Hoenie of Celina and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Connie (David) Rohyans, brother Tim Smelser, brother Larry (Adele) Smelser, and brothers-in-law Hal Evens, Jerry Evens, and Blaine Evens.

Steve was a former Boy Scout and a paperboy for The Daily Standard. He graduated from Celina Senior High School with the class of 1969. He served in the US Army in Vietnam. Steve worked many years and retired from Anchor Glass in Winchester.

Steve loved to fish and hunt. He was a true nature lover, as he grew many flowers, bushes, and trees.

He loved all the birds and animals, especially his dog, Morgan. Steve also loved to ride his Harley motorcycle.

Walker Funeral Home in Winchester is in charge of arrangements. Private family services will be held at a later date.

Archive of
January 8th, 2026

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