Ronald R. Smith, 78, Flandreau, SD, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on May 19, 2019.
Ronald Roy was born in Flandreau on June 17, 1941 to Eldred and Caroline (Spangler) Smith. Ron attended country school at Flandreau and public schools in Oregon only to return to Flandreau to graduate. Ron went on to obtain his Bachelor’s degree from Southern Mississippi. Ron served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Navy where he received many awards and commendations. Ron then worked for the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Division of the Navy Department. Ron was united in marriage to Shirley Champlin. Their son, Scott, was born July 22, 1972. Ron married Valerie Thomson in December 2005. Ron was a proud Grandpa to their 5 grandchildren.
Ron was an avid gardener and photographer. He enjoyed researching the ancestry of his family. Ron served the city of Flandreau as the Finance Officer for nine years, City Council for six years, the FDC for eight years, and the Housing Board for ten years. Ron also enjoyed volunteering his time at the Moody County Museum, Crystal Theatre and Methodist Church Steeple Notes. Ron was instrumental in the process of moving the City offices into their new location and mapping the Moody County Cemeteries. Previously Ron worked at Coast to Coast, J &K Building Center, and a local antique store all located in Flandreau. Ron was also a member of the American Legion.
Ron is survived by his wife: Val of Flandreau; three children: Ammy (Tony) Counterman of Sioux Falls, SD, Scott Smith of Austin, TX, and Scott (Christy) Thomson of Edgerton, MN; his beloved grandchildren: Kailee, Kaden, Cole, Corrie, and Tanner; his siblings: Terry Smith, Doug (Tracey) Smith, both of Lake Campbell, SD, Steve (Georgie) Smith of Sioux Falls, SD, Sylvia (Greg) Alberts of Flandreau, SD, and several nieces and nephews. Ron was proceeded in death by his parents and grandparents.
Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 pm Wednesday with a 7:00 pm prayer service at Skroch Funeral Chapel, Flandreau. A private family burial service will be held on Thursday. The family prefers donations to the Moody County Museum. www.skrochfc.com
