Sheldon N. Smetzer, age 74, of Bellevue, died unexpectedly Thursday night, February 23, 2017, in Firelands Regional Medical Center, Sandusky. He was born January 9, 1943, in Bellevue, and graduated from Townsend High School in 1961.  He served in the Ohio National Guard from 1964 until 1970.  Sheldon was a self employed farmer and also worked for Sunrise Co-Op Inc. for 13 years.  He loved to collect antique farm equipment and enjoyed gardening. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lee (Ballard) Smetzer; two daughters Nickole Leonard and Cynthia (John) Kurt; son Adam Smetzer; grandchildren Troy (Kara), Samantha, Trent, Faythe, Kaine, Hannah, Hope, and Owen; and several nieces and nephews. Sheldon was preceded in death by his parents Arden and Harriett (Neill) Smetzer; daughter Ericka; sister Joan; and brothers Sydney and Alton. Friends may call from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM Friday, March 3, 2017, at Ransom Funeral and Cremation Service, 610. S. Washington St., Castalia.   Private family services and burial will be held later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Smetzer family, 6778 County Rd. 235, Bellevue, OH 44811.  Online condolences may be shared with family at www.ransomfuneralhome.com