Obituary of Ryan Christopher Smith

Ryan Christopher Smith passed away on March 20, 2015, on his birthday. Ryan’s life would seem too short to many, but those that were touched by him understood the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gentle smile could melt the hearts of those around him. Ryan was very animated and the life of the party, even if there was not a party. Everyone knew when Ryan was in the room. Ryan was constantly looking for a better way, either for himself or someone else. He was always considerate of those around him and would ensure everyone was happy and taken care of. Ryan recently finished his Associate Degree and was pursuing his Bachelor’s Degree online. He en-joyed his job as a wellness guide at Walgreen’s. He would help people who did not feel well and would suggest some over the counter medication or refer them to the pharmacist. Ryan was in the first graduating class of Palo Verde High School in the year 2000. He was in the choir and played foot-ball. His choir class played at Carnegie Hall and marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Ryan is survived by his mother Karen (Cheryl) Lewendowski; father, Tony (Corinna Wortman) Smith; brothers, Kyle (Alexzandria) Smith, Neil Smith; step-brother, Brandon (Andrea) Twasta; step-sister, Angelina (Jason) Nichols; grandparents, Joe and Annette Westfall; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Ryan was preceded in death by his step-sister, JoAnna in August, 2013. In lieu of flowers, donations, in memory of Ryan, can be made to www.tetheredballoons.com. The Smith family has also requested that if you have photos of your memories with Ryan and would like them included in a slide show that you email your photos to Picturesforryansmith@gmail.com. “But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength . . . . and I was delivered from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory for ever and ever. Amen” ~ II Timothy 4:17a,b, 18