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William Smith
WILLIAM "BJ" SMITH
Solon
William James "BJ" Smith, 26, of Solon, passed away Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City after a lifelong struggle with muscular dystrophy.
BJ was born June 7, 1991, in Iowa City, the son of William and Cynthia (Maier) Smith. He graduated from Solon High School and Kirkwood Community College with a degree in computer science.
BJ grew up being a goodwill ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and worked the fishbowl at the telethon for many years. Later in life, he developed a love for barbecue, especially smoking foods and hosting events, video gaming and attending motorcycling events, where he was treated like a true brother.
He is survived by his parents, Bill and Cindy Smith; sister, Tori Pinney and her husband, Brian; two nephews; maternal grandparents, Don and Virginia Maier and Judy VanNorden; and numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and dear friends, who were as close a brothers.
A celebration of BJ's life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 15, at the Hills City Park shelter, where a potluck and time of gathering will follow. A memorial also will take place this fall in Conesville.
Memorials in BJ's memory may be directed to Camp Courageous or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Online condolences can be shared with his family at www.gayandciha.com.
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