Ronald Dwight Smith<br/>April 26, 1935 - May 4, 2014

Loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, Ron passed away at the age of 79, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born in Los Angeles, the son of Ira Dwight Smith and Carolyn Jule Smith. Raised in North Hollywood, he graduated from North Hollywood High School.

Ron became a fireman in 1958, serving 30 years with the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Highly respected by his colleagues and superiors, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery. His last assignment was as 1st Mate on the Fire Boat II, stationed in Los Angeles Harbor.

In 1955, he married his high school sweetheart, Kay Jones. In 1962 they settled in Newport Beach and raised their two sons, Eric and Alex. Following retirement Ron became a master knitter, creating beautiful sweaters, coats, scarves and shawls for family and close friends. A gourmet chef, Ron’s dinner invitations were treasured by his many friends, and Sunday dinner with his family was a weekly event. Two of Ron’s greatest joys were traveling to Hawaii and sailing 17 times on the Sea Dream II.

Ron was a man of integrity and principle. He held family foremost in his heart, and was like a second father to his son’s friends. He was deeply loyal and true to each person he called a friend. All they had to do was ask and Ron was there to lend his help and support.

Ron is survived by his wife Kay, sons Eric (Judy), Alex (Marina), 3 grandchildren; Spencer, Erica and John, sister Connie Corn and brother Steve Smith.

A Hawaiian themed celebration of his life will be held at his home in Newport Beach, on Sunday, May 18th from 1-6 p.m. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the Los Angeles City Fire Department Widows and Orphans Fund.