Ronald Douglas Smith

RONALD DOUGLAS SMITH

Born December 11, 1964, Ron Smith passed away in Seattle, his life long home, thirteen years after being diagnosed with Stage 4 Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.

Affectionately known as “Iron Man” or “Smitty”, he was strong and courageous, and perse-vered through three dozen chemotherapy treatments, twelve full body radiations, and a stem cell transplant which finally put his cancer in remission. Soon after, he developed Graft Versus Host Disease, which ultimately took his life, at the age of 59.

Prior to being diagnosed, Ron was exceptionally fit, health conscious, and active.

Playing baseball, snowboarding, golfing, target practice, camping, canoeing, ATVing and riding a motorcycle were some of his favorite past times. He loved sports of any kind, driving, car racing, playing pool, collecting guns, movies, and music - and was an artist, creator, traveler, learner, and fabulous dancer.

In his youth, he dreamt of becoming a pilot, a policeman, an actor, and radio broadcaster. Ron’s primary profession revolved around commercial and residential building construction. He was a talented carpenter and builder, and completed many home remodeling projects for customers, family, friends, and himself.

Ron graduated from West Seattle High School with top honors in 1983, voted “most likely to be cloned”, and quite remarkably without ever having even tried cigarettes, alcohol, or drugs of any kind.

After being diagnosed, Ron adopted Ripley, a cattle dog who became his closest companion. Over the years as he physically deteriorated, he aspired to be a kinder and gentler version of himself. HIs motto: “more honey, less vinegar” became a true life practice which manifested itself in his thoughts, words, and actions.

Ron was loved by many, despite the fact that he could be a tough audience. Sometimes sar-castic and abrupt, he had a wry sense of humor, and he could also be tender, understanding, silly, forgiving, and compassionate. His honesty and perspective were appreciated by those who knew him.

He is survived by the light of his life, 17 year old daughter Ruby Ann Smith, and his beloved dog Ripley. Also, his father Douglas Smith, mother Glenda Smith, older sister Rebecca Smith, nephews Vin Smith and Chris Wood, and nieces Jessica Crane and Miranda York. Ron joins his sister Linda Wood in the afterlife.

Ron passed away February 29, Leap Day, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, his family wishes to request a charitable donation be made in Ron’s name to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance / Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center.

A commemoration of Ron’s life will be held at the Alki Beach Bathhouse on Sunday, April 21 at 3:00 pm. Anyone is welcome who knew and loved Ron

Please dress comfortably. The venue is on the beach and there is no reserved parking. Please allow ample time to park and walk to venue.

Please share memories and condolences on the Tribute Wall, located above.

Arrangements entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald Douglas Smith, please visit our floral store.