Ronald Wayne Smith, known fondly as Ron, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at his home in Menomonee Falls after a courageous battle with dementia. He was 89 years old, born on August 5, 1936, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ron lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. He married his beloved wife, Patricia (Honeck) Smith, sharing sixty-seven devoted years together. Their marriage was a reflection of mutual love and steadfast commitment, built upon shared faith and compassion for others. Ron served in the Army for three years during the Korean War. Afterwards went on to work for the Milwaukee Forestry Department as an Arborist for thirty-eight years, where his care for the natural world and his community was evident in everything he did. A man of great warmth and generosity, Ron was known for his friendly nature and willingness to help anyone in need. He had a gift for conversation and a deep appreciation for the beauty of God’s creation. Whether tending to his yard, casting a line on the lake, or sharing a cup of coffee with a friend, Ron found joy in life’s simple blessings. He also shared his faith through writing, contributing articles to his church that reflected his personal experiences and his enduring passion for God’s word.

Ron was a devoted husband to wife Patricia, father to Kelly (Smith) and Son-in-law Gerry Smarelli, was grandfather to John and Tracy (Lowrie) Lichner, Steven and Brenda (Greiving) Lichner, and great-grandfather to Korben, Brooklynn, Hazel and Nash. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Smith, and his daughter, Kelly Smarelli. He was preceded in death by his son, Randy Smith, his parents, Marvin and Viola (Logemann) Smith, his sister, Audrey Martz, and his brother, Dennis Smith. His family and friends will remember him for his kindness, his faith, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Crown of Life Church, 1292 Tally Ho Trail, Hubertus, WI 53033. The visitation for Ron will be held from 9:30 am until 10:45 am, with the funeral service at 11:00 am. A luncheon will immediately follow. A private family burial will take place on Monday, March 16th, at Wisconsin Memorial Park, Brookfield, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Crown of Life Church are appreciated.

Ron’s life was guided by his deep faith in Jesus Christ. As written in John 15:5, “I am the vine. You are the branches.” Those words reflect the foundation of his life, one lived in faith, truth, and love. He now rests peacefully in the eternal presence of his Savior.