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Ronald D. Smith
Jan 2, 1962 – Sep 24, 2021
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Ronald D. Smith passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at age 59, after a short illness. Ron was born on Jan. 2, 1962 in Merced, CA, to Marvin H. Smith and Karen R. (Blair) Smith. After a couple of years in Merced, his father’s Air Force career required the family to move every year or so, giving Ron the opportunity to live in different states as well as to experience the diverse cultures and environments of other countries. The family moved to Turlock after his dad’s retirement.

Ron attended Modesto Junior College after graduating from Turlock High School in 1980. He went on to work in television and radio advertising and doing commercials and voice overs. After his vocal cords were damaged in a fire, Ron moved over into working for various retail chains. He most recently worked as the Asst. Manager of Pet Extreme/Pet Supplies Plus in Turlock for the last 15 years.

Ron had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. He loved music, movies, and theatre, and was an avid S.F. Giants fan. He spent many happy days with family and friends at baseball games, concerts, and plays. He was a talented musician and singer.

Ron loved his family deeply. He is survived by his partner of 27 years, Victor Castro, his sister Tammy (Carl) Horner, sister-in-law Vicky Deardorff, nieces Natalia and Madeline Deardorff, and nephew Stephan (Danielle) Mahler. His family loved and will miss him immensely. He was predeceased by his parents, grandparents, and brother Kevin.

A graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021 at Turlock Memorial Park, 575 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock, CA. We kindly ask that COVID-19 protocols are followed and masks are worn by those who attend the service.

 Donations may be made in his name to the United Samaritans Foundation (Turlock).