Ronald Dale Smith, 75, passed away in late September in Newton, Kansas. Those who knew Ron will remember a man who embraced life to the fullest — a devoted father, loyal friend, and true adventurer at heart.
Ron was born in Newton, Kansas, on August 21, 1950, to Bill T. and Marilyn C. Smith. During his youth, he worked alongside his twin brother, Thomas, at his parents’ A&W restaurant and later on the Santa Fe Railroad with his father — experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic and love of people.
After earning his MBA from the University of Kansas, Ron settled in Colorado and began his career in banking with a focus on oil and gas lending. This evolved into a long and distinguished career in the oil and gas industry, taking him to destinations around the world — one of his favorite places being Russia. Yet no matter how far his work took him, his heart always belonged to Colorado.
An avid skier, scuba diver, mountaineer, camper, boater, and water skier, Ron truly embraced life as an adventure. The outdoors brought him his greatest joy, and he cherished every opportunity to explore. He possessed a jovial laugh that could carry across a room and a wonderful sense of humor that drew people to him. Beyond his love of adventure, Ron enjoyed cooking, music, and reading — pursuits that reflected his lifelong curiosity and love of learning. He also treasured long, heartfelt phone calls with friends and family, which kept him connected to those he cared about most.
Ron’s career led him to Houston for a time before he ultimately returned to Newton to be near his parents and support them in their later years.
He is survived by his daughter, Alexandra Smith; stepson, Jeff Collins; former wife, Kathy Smith; three beloved grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held in Colorado at a later date.
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