Ronnie Duaine Smith

Ronnie Duaine Smith, 65, of Frenchtown, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, at his residence. Ron was born May 20, 1948, in Boise, Idaho, to James R. and Eleda E. "Pat" Smith.

Ron attended first through 12th grades at Boise schools, graduating with the first class in 1966 from Capital High. He later attended 2 1/2 years at Boise Junior College.

Ron was an American League baseball player and umpire, was the racing coach for the Bogus Basin Mitey Mites and was a junior racing coach at Bogus under Walt Falk. He was the head coach for the McCall Ski Club. He was a certified ski instructor and worked at Mount Hood Meadows in Oregon, where he met his wife, Susan Chamberlain. Ron and Sue were married March 30, 1972, and had two children, Ryan Robert and Robert Kyle.

Ron worked with sign companies in Oregon, Nevada and Idaho as a journeyman sign installer.

Ron was a member of St. Stephen Episcopal Church, where he was confirmed and served as an acolyte.

Ron loved to fish and hunt; he tied his own flies and loaded his own shells. He enjoyed gardening and playing the guitar. The last years were difficult for Ron, but he is remembered for his intelligence, kindness and sweet sense of humor.

Ron was preceded in death by his son, Kyle; twin sister, Bonnie Smith Myer; sister, Patricia Pennie; niece, Laura Boswell; father, James R. Smith; and stepfather, Mart Pennie. He is survived by his son, Ryan of Redmond, Wash., and San Diego; his mother, Pat Pennie of Frenchtown; and his brothers, Brent R. (Vicki) Smith of Post Falls, Idaho, and David Pennie of Frenchtown. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Condolences may be sent to Pat Pennie at P.O. Box 186, Frenchtown, MT, 59834. Donations may be made to the local chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association

Read Ronnie Smith's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.