Ronald "Ron" Smith

A Memorial Graveside Service for Ronald L. Smith will be held on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at the Fridhem Cemetery in rural Funk, Nebraska with Pastor David Wilson officiating.

Ronald Leon "Ron" Smith, 69 years of age, of Holdrege, passed away on January 16, 2022, at his home in Holdrege, surrounded by family after a long battle with cancer. Ron was born in Orleans, Nebraska on January 5, 1953, to Grant and Lily (Roland) Smith. He joined brother, David and sister, Sheryl at home. Ron attended school in Orleans, until the family moved to Alma, where he finished his schooling.

Following his education, Ron was employed by Verlyn Taylor of Holdrege, and later for his brother-in-law, Ron Leach, building Morton Grain Bins. He then started working for Brian Popple in the concrete business and retired from there after 22 years due to his declining health.

Ron kept busy working on his truck, hauling scrap Iron, and mowing on the farm for Mike Olson, who in turn worked on Ron's pickup for him. He was very thankful that Mike helped him out.

He loved his cat named Lady; she was a great comfort to him. He also enjoyed oldies music, especially Rebel Rouser by Duane Eddy. Ron was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 3132 in Holdrege.

Ron was preceded in death by: his parents; one brother, David Smith; two brothers-in-law: Ron Leach and James Ellison; and nephew, Mike Smith.

Ron is survived by his sister, Sheryl Ellison of Funk; three nieces: Sharon Cherry and her husband, Jim of Red Cloud, Nebraska; Gina Schmalz of Holdrege; and Stacy Paulson and her husband, Jon of Cedar Springs, Michigan; and a host of great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

There will be no visitation or memorial book signing, the family is honoring Ron's wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in Ron's honor, and cards can be sent to Sheryl Ellison at PO BOX 187, Funk, Nebraska 68940.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.