John Phillip Gemmer , 78, of Fort Wayne, passed away at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Bethlehem Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation in Fort Wayne.

Born on September 5, 1945, in Kansas City, Missouri, he was an orphan.  Adopted by the late Edward H. and Mable G. (Gallogly) Gemmer, he grew up in Columbia City and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1963.

He joined the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War.  After returning home, he attended Indiana University, earning a Juris Doctor degree.

He began practicing law in Fort Wayne, later moving to Gary, Indiana, where he specialized in collections.  After retiring from his law practice, he returned to Fort Wayne.

He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5582, Columbia City.

He is survived by his brother, Timothy (Marilyn) Gemmer of New Haven, and several nieces and nephews.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas L. Gemmer.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday (August 27th) at the Thorn Cemetery at Ormas, 6254 W 350S, Albion, IN, with military honors.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in John's honor are to VFW Post 5582.