RONALD SMITH

Ronald Evan Smith Founding member of the well known local band "Great Pretenders," died January 30, 2011, after a battle against prostate cancer. Ron was born in Tacoma on June 26, 1943, to Dallas Osborne and Ruth (nee Bigelow). Ron was influenced for many years by stepfather Wendell (Smitty) Smith. He graduated from Puyallup High School in 1962. Ron valued his family beyond description, keeping every card and picture ever sent to him. Step children from his first marriage were still "his" after 40 years - Jeff Levin (Ruth, children Tyler and Ashley), and Lori Baldwin (Brett, children Cody and Samantha Waterlemon.) Ron's sons Ronald Eugene and Kenneth Evan (Crissy, children Lloyd, Evan and Preston) reside in Oregon. Step children from his second marriage to Louisa include Matthew Uffelman (Kimberly) and Helen Williams, truly his daughter in spirit, with whom he had a special bond. His grandchildren include David, Joe and Steven Uffelman, and Evan and Jessica Williams. Ron is survived by his wife of 27 years, Louisa; and by his mother, Ruth Jones, and two sisters, Marla Edmundson (Michael) and Sally Cofchin (Michael). Ron began playing guitar in his high school years. Completely self taught, Ron developed his own style. His guitar work was accented by an authoritative bass voice. Although Ron had several day jobs, his real life was music. In 1971 the Great Pretenders came together, and this year celebrate their 40th anniversary. Ron's final performance was New Years Eve 2010 at the Buckley Eagles. Ron will be especially missed by long time friend and Great Pretenders co-founder Charlie Hollis. The family offers special thanks to Les White, who helped Ron get to the several gigs he was able to play during his illness, and to the army of helpers who made his last days comfortable. Ron lived, and died, as he wished. A celebration of Ron's life will be held Sunday, June 26th (Ron's birthday) at Swiss Hall in Bonney Lake. The family suggests donations to the "Ronald E Smith Memorial Fund" at any Key Bank.