Clifford "Dean" Smith

It made me sad to read of the death of Dean Smith. He was the first city manager I worked for and as a young kid out of law school I looked with awe at Dean. Yet he schooled me in the complicated role of working directly for the city council yet being a team player. His patience and professionaism shaped my career. But he also knew how to have fun. I enjoyed wine at his home on Douglas place and beer at Mothers Mattress Factory. Oldtimers remember the chicken city jokes. Thank You Dean...

Kathy and Holly,

I was so sorry to read about your dad. I have many good memories of your dad and mother. They both were so kind.

My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

My thoughts are with Dean's family and friends. While employed with the League of Oregon Cities, I had the distinct privilege of meeting Dean. He was a respected "legend" among local government professionals and an inspiration to all the public servants who continually strive to provide good governance.

I came to Oregon in the early 80's and C Dean was always mentioned as one of a handful of premiere Oregon City Managers. As the current City Manager of Corvallis, I am the recipient of the foundation work he provided as the Corvallis City Manager in the 70's. Thank you C Dean and family for sharing your time and talents.

Dean was a member of a "great generation" of Oregon City Managers. He was very well respected amongst his peers - young and old. I'm confident my predecessor as City Manager here in McMinnville, Joe Dancer, and Dean are now sharing City Manager "war stories." My prayers and thoughts sent out to all Dean's family. You should be a proud bunch.

I worked for Dean when he was the City Manager in Corvallis. He took a 23 year old on in senior management roll and provided me with the guidance necessary to grow and develop. Over my entire career, I have looked back on my experiences working for Dean as the most important in making me the person that I am today. His passing is a great loss and he will be missed.

Thank you everyone for your kind words. My sister and I had no way to contact friends, from our father's work past. Please view the entire obituary at http://www.bollmanfuneralhome.com/home.html
We may also be contacted through them.

I worked for C Dean for years as his Director or Enforcement at the Liquor Control Commission. About a year before he promoted me he met with me and asked where I wanted to be in five years. I told Director of Enforcement. The day he appointed me he remained me of what I had told him. It was a privilege to know him and work with over the years.

Richard B and Linda L. Evans Sr.
Oregon City

Dean worked with me when he was city manager of Sutherlin. I helped him get some federal matching money for some mapping he needed for the city. He was forthright, good humored and became a good friend. Though we didn't see a lot of him in later years, I always though highly of him and enjoyed visiting when we did make contact. He was a big plus to me. I wish his family condolences, and the very best for the future.