Ryan Joseph Smith

Ryan Joseph Smith

Marion

Ryan Joseph Smith, 36, of Marion, Iowa, passed away Sept. 6, 2023, after a brief but aggressive battle with cancer. Ryan was born Tuesday, Sept. 16, 1986, in Denver, Colo., to Keith and Shawna Smith.

Ryan was a self-proclaimed nerd, an undefeated "Worms" champion, and a video game enthusiast. He loved Marvel, Star Wars, video editing, kayaking, fishing, creating art, and cinema. He was a music lover; Gorillaz, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jimi Hendrix, and the Doors were among his favorites. He was a dog lover, an amazing friend, and a beloved uncle, brother, cousin, and son.

Ryan lit up the room with his big brown eyes, charismatic smile, and incredible sense of humor. He had a deep passion for science and a vast knowledge of the universe. He loved rainy days, and the night sky.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Shawna Swain of Cedar Rapids and Keith Smith of Marion; brothers Micheal (Darlene) Smith of Marion and Andrew (Katie) Dickson of Dixon, Ill.; sister Lyndsay Franks of Cedar Rapids; nieces Magik Carlton, Journey Franks, Story Linvell, Willow Smith and Leila Dickson; nephews Legend Franks, Drew Dickson and Wesley Smith; special cousins Kendra Coleman, Michael Dickson, and Jeffrey Dickson; his friends family, known as the Circle; as well as many other beloved cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

Ryan was preceded in death by his cherished Nanny, Rose Marie Macfarlane; Papa Fred Dickson; Grandparents Yvonne and Paul Smith; Aunt Mary Bisland; Cousin Todd Weaver; and lifelong best friend, Tony Willett.

A celebration of life will be held on his 37th birthday, Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at 1 p.m. at the Van Vechten Park pavilion. The celebration will be a potluck, so please bring a dish to share, as well as photos and memories of Ryan.