Smith, Ronald 'Ron' F.

Ronald “Ron” F. Smith, 69, of Coggon, died Monday, Sept. 13, 2010, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha, following a quiet and brave battle with cancer. Services: 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at St. Stephen Catholic Church, Central City, by Father Wayne Droessler. The family will greet friends from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Marion, where a vigil will begin at 4 p.m. Burial: Mount Clark Cemetery, Central City.

Survivors include his wife, Donna of Coggon; three daughters, Julie Smith of Marion, Jennifer Smith of Coggon and Jill (Craig) Kimpston of Clive; and three grandchildren, Skylar Smith and Hunter and Noah Kimpston.

He was preceded in death by two sons, Jay in 1988, and Jeffrey in 1992; and his parents.

Ron was born Jan. 22, 1941, the son of Forrest and Delores (Graesch) Smith in Inglewood, Calif. He married Donna Fleming on Aug. 1, 1959, in Lamont, Iowa. Ron was a longtime Coggon resident where he farmed and worked construction. The family then owned and operated the R&R One Stop in Central City from 1985 to 1988. He then continued in the construction business until this summer.

Ron dearly loved his many friends. He never spoke ill of another person. His greatest joy was his family and grandchildren. Ron took quiet pleasure in his craftsmanship, and one of his passions was flying, he loved giving people their first ride in a small plane. Ron also enjoyed hunting and fishing and was eager to play cards with his wonderful friends, no matter what he was doing. He loved his life; he never complained; he never asked “Why?” Ron was a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Central City, and a member of the AOPA.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Mercy Hospice for the love and care that Ron received while he was there; especially Laurie and Sister Mary Lou.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Ron's memory. Memorial may be directed to the family at 1647 Hutchinson Rd., Coggon, IA 52218.

Please sign the online guest book for Ron at under obituaries.