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Aaron Smith Obituary
Aaron Keith Smith, 37, died in Klamath Falls, Ore., June 11, 2013.
A service of tribute and love will be 2 p.m. Saturday in Eternal Hills Chapel with Pastor Jim Boyd officiating. Entombment will be held at Haven of Rest Mausoleum in Eternal Hills Memorial Gardens.
Aaron was born on Nov. 14, 1975, in Medford, Ore., to Sandi and Keith Smith.
He grew up in Klamath Falls, attending Roosevelt Elementary School and Ponderosa Junior High School before graduating from Klamath Union High School in 1993. While at Klamath Union High School, he played on the tennis team for three years. After graduation, he went on to college at Central Oregon Community College, where he received his AA degree in welding and manufacturing. He then continued his education by becoming a journeyman electrician and worked in the Klamath Basin for several years. In addition, he designed several iron gate fences in the Medford area.
He married in 1998 and had two children Clara and Clay. The marriage later ended. Two years ago, Aaron's cancer returned, leading to his lengthy illness. Through it all, he would always say "It is what it is."
Aaron was a member of Faith Tabernacle Assembly of God and the DeMolay. He enjoyed hunting, including a trip to Africa for plains game, and fishing, especially on the Williamson and salmon on the Rogue. He could build anything, including two cars from the ground up.
He is survived by his parents Sandi Nyback Smith of Klamath Falls and Keith and Deborah Smith of Sun City, Ariz.; children Clara and Clay Smith; brother Jarod Smith and his daughter Madison; sister Kendra Jones and her children Jacob, Isaac and Alexis; cousin Barbara Howard; many special cousins, all of Klamath
Falls; and a number of close special friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Al and Nine Nyback and Alex and LaVern Smith
Eternal Hills Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Please sign the online guest book at www.heraldandnews.com/obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Susan
June 7, 2025
Look another year has gone by without you. Rest in Peace my friend.
Susan
June 7, 2024
Life goes on without those we care about but the love remains. I guess that is what is important. Miss you and your mom.
Susan
June 7, 2023
It has been 10 years. So much has changed. So many friends and family gone. I still think about you.
Susan
June 7, 2022
Every year goes by and I get this reminder. I always say OMG Aaron is really gone. Then I miss you all over again. I think about your mom and I think about the laughs we had together and all that work for Jobs Daughters. I think about how much of you guys were a part of my life. I think there wasn't enough time. Now with your mother gone, I say to myself I have no reason to go home again. It feels like everything is lost. I hope you are resting in peace. I hope you are happy. And I hope someday to see you again.
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Julee
June 7, 2021
You may be gone but you are never forgotten! Your smile and laughter still live in my heart and the memories we shared. Thank you for being a wonderful friend and confidant. I appreciate your kindness and all the love and support you gave to me and so many others. Bless you Aaron. Give hugs to your mom for me :-)
a friend
June 7, 2019
I think about you a lot. Even put a picture of us at Jobs Daughters installation in my room. I hope you found peace.
June 12, 2016
There will never be another like you my son. Dad
my son
keith smith
June 12, 2016
June 12, 2016
Love and miss you son.
My heart aches for you.
Dad
June 11, 2015
Man Ö Man, I cant believe we lost you so unexpectedly two years ago today. We talk about you often and still laugh about the memories we made. You taught me tremendous lessons about life and many other hobbies we shared. thank you, until we meet again, keep the rubber side down and pass in the corners ;) love ya
May 20, 2015
Aaron, I have been thinking about you and alot about all the laughter and happiness you brought into my life. My mom recently passed unexpectedly a couple weeks ago. I was thinking how horrible it feels to be left here without the ones I love. I think maybe you guys could have a great time in heaven. Shes got the qualitys you loved about me, and will bring big smiles to your face and crack you up! I still think of you and our time together and how I was blessed to have shared them with you.... Until we meet again Aaron love you muches and enjoy my mama...!
Always smiling
April 27, 2015
Always positive
April 27, 2015
John Obedowski
November 15, 2014
Happy Birthday Aaron. Thanks again for all the help you gave us. I wish that when you really needed help with your illness, that I had it within my means to help you. This was totally in God's hands, and I respect that. You are greatly missed.
Julee
November 14, 2014
Happy Birthday Aaron. Miss you and your wonderful smile and laughter. Had a wonderful visit with your mom, talked about the kids and how much they are growing. We know you are looking over them. Got to pass by the Rogue Elk Creek Park. Brought back some great memories of us fishing the Rogue. Also went by your special spot in Klamath. The sunrays coming through the clouds brought back so many wonderful memories that we shared. Thinking of you always. Thanks for adding so much joy to my life.
June 13, 2014
I miss you everyday Boog. This should not have happened. Kids should not leave before their parents. My Son you will be missed terribly on Fathers Day.
My Heart aches for you. Not only were you loved and admired by so many you were truly The Best Son a Father could ever Have. Till Than Son. Dad
June 12, 2014
Sat by the river and drank a beer for both of us. Smile Beautiful is what I told myself all day yesterday as you told me to :) I know one day I will see your face and hear those amazing words "Hi Hunny" from you!!! Has anybody told you they love you lately......
XOXOXOXOX
Julee
June 10, 2014
I can't believe it will be one year since we lost you. This year has gone by so fast. I am greatful that you are no longer in pain. I have so many wonderful and fun memories of you. the words "Thank you" does not say enough or convey how much I am greatful for you being in my life. You made this world brighter and wonderful just by being yourself. You were and still are amazing to me. You are still loved and missed so very much by all of us. Aaron you are an angel. I am so greatful for your friendship and your love. You truly were a remarkable man. You will not be forgotten. Love ya! XO
Julee
April 8, 2014
Had a great day with your mom yesterday! It was like old times and brought up so many wonderful memories when we were all together. I could feel your warmth and your smile. I could even hear that wonderful laugh of yours and see the sparkle in your eyes. We had a great day talking about you and all the good times we had. You will never be forgotten! I am greatful for each and every day and moment I got to share with you.
April 1, 2014
I miss you. Everything reminds me of you. The purple blossoms that you cut for your mom. Puddle driving. Late night dates. I miss you.
March 9, 2014
I have been thinking of you so much lately. Your smile, your warmth and how amazing you were and still are, and always will be to me. You made my life better than I ever thought it could be. Thank you for being so wonderful, kind and love. Aaron, you will not be forgotten!
January 9, 2014
Funny some posted here and this morning I was dreaming about Aaron again.
January 8, 2014
Thank you for loving me for me! I miss you each and everyday but I smile, cuz that's what you always told me to do! I love you, "always and forever"
Susan
November 15, 2013
I dreamed about you last night. You were young, and hanging out with your friends and I was so happy to see you. I just dropped what I was doing and ran and gave you a hug. Silly dreams, silly tears in my eyes missing you.
Julee
November 14, 2013
Happy Birthday Aaron! Not a day goes by that I don't think about you. You blessed me with your kindness, friendship and never ending love. I am so grateful to have been apart of your life. Your generosity, kindness and sincerety were just a few of your wonderful characteristics. I have so many great memories of you and the fun times we spent together. No matter how sick you were you always could make me smile and laugh. I could never say thank you enough. I am glad I got to spend so much time with you last year. We had a great time on your birthday surrounded by friends and family. You touched so many peoples lives in a positive way. You were always willing to go the extra mile to help other. Your gentle fun loving spirit will live on forever. Happy Birthday my friend. Thank you for improving my life beyond measure. I miss you very much. Love ya!
Aarons Birthday Nov 14th 2012
November 13, 2013
September 13, 2013
Missing you terribly........thank you for blessing me with your love.
~Shelbee
July 16, 2013
You were one of my favorite treasures I was given in my life... My personal sweet pea. Aaron I miss you so much its almost to hard to think about. I miss your voice, your laugh, your "What do you know" remark...! I never met anyone that could talk for hours on the phone like you could and still never run out of things to talk about. Really miss that! I know I cant see you again but I wish there was a phone in heaven. I think of all the laughter that was so freely given, your kindness. I truly believe I had met my match with you... Your crazy spontaneity to jump in the truck and drive, your energy to embarrass me in public, your zest and desire to live life to the fullest. You were someone who appreciated everything. I don't have enough words to express how you are missed. I know the lord had you in my life for a reason and thou you are missed I will see you again. I am glad you are in no more pain and your heart is full of love and peace. I know thru our conversations without a doubt that you are up there with the angels... You were a good father and your father in heaven knows and sees all... You will be blessed in many ways in heaven for sure. Sandy thank you for your kindness and for having such a wonderful son. I having a son myself cannot imagine this loss. Just know that my prayers are with you always and I love you and I am always here in any way you need me. You blessed me with sharing that wonderful son of yours and opening your arms to me. May God bless your family and may the Lord wrap his loving arms around all of you. Aaron keep me a warm seat and stock the pond!!! I will see you again someday and I am bringing a pole...:) Sweet dreams~Sweet pea & Godbless you!
July 8, 2013
With Deepest Sympathy at this sad time. A special life has passed from sight... Our heavenly creator is Love in his memory we are not forgotten 1John 4:8
July 7, 2013
Aaron, from the very first time I met you I thought to myself, now this is a wonderful kid. I got to spend some quality time with you while you helped me do some wiring on my Chiloquin Home. I knew you were special. Your jokes, your teasing your laughter will always stay with me. I was very proud to call you son. Dad's heart is breaking. He is missing you Boog. You are our special angel in Heaven. Life will never be the same without you in it. But you are out of all your pain now son. No worries no heart aches. You were a good dad. You loved your children. God has a Special Place for You. Maybe teaching kids to fish. Look down upon your Clara & Clay & pray for them. Watch over them. There will be no more tears in Heaven. No more tears.
Till we meet again........Gone Fish'n
John Obedowski
July 2, 2013
Aaron, thank-you for being our friend. I prayed very hard that you recover from this illness. God wanted you now. Only the very best people get to be with him. I think you must have suffered a lot, and I am sure the good Lord wanted that to all stop for you. I am certain you are at peace now, and I am grateful for this. You will always continue to be in our prayers.
Aaron's boat in the Rogue River 2012
June 21, 2013
June 19, 2013
You left me too soon...I miss you...your laughter and smiles will be in my heart forever Aaron...<3
Pamela Neves
June 19, 2013
Sandi and Keith - There are no words...this is not how it is supposed to be..the memories of the good times will help ease the pain..My thoughts are with you and your family
Jules
June 18, 2013
It's has almost been one week since you left us. I miss you everyday! It is hard not to call your phone and hear the laughter in your voice.
I am sorry the children were not allowed to say their good byes to you or attend your service - we will let them know how much you loved them and what a great man you were!
Rest in peace my friend. You will always be loved and remembered for the great man that you were.
June 17, 2013
I got the call last night from my Mom, Susan Smith, who was married to my Dad, Don Smith. Aaron''s Uncle and brother of Keith. I can't tell you how sad I am. As a child, I will never forget Aaron teasing me, and me giving my first and only attempted punch to a human being. He went off crying, and I assumed I was dead meat. The adults were all at the table, and I got off light. It became a family joke that he grew so much bigger than me and that was last time I would win a fight against him or any of my cousins. I'm taking my family to Chapman reservoir this Fourth of July week and to Crosho lake. I had planned it before, but I will say an extra prayer for Aaron.
Elena and Kenny Cooper
June 17, 2013
Kenny and I will miss you so much. I will never forget your huge smile. We pray that you are at peace and out of pain finally. Clara and Clay ~ Your Dad was a great man who loved you both very much. Always remember this.
Aaron at Crater Lake May 2013
June 16, 2013
Aaron's favorite place...
June 15, 2013
June 15, 2013
Grieving with you. Praying for the entire family during this difficult time.
June 15, 2013
Ashley Bussey
June 15, 2013
I am going to miss Aaron very much. The one thing I will miss most is that no matter when or where he saw me weather it be at church or the store the first thing that would come out of his mouth is "Oh look here comes trouble" or "Hey trouble!" Aaron loved teasing me ever since I was a little girl I was always "Trouble" and I would act like it annoy the heck out of me. I used to act like I was getting mad. I remember at a dessert social at church when I was in a bad mood I went to leave to go to some other part of the church. He was be right behind me and would not leave me alone till I went back to the social. "Trouble" might of been his nick-name for me but he was there quite a few times to keep me out of trouble and that is what I will miss most. I would trade anything just to hear him call me "Trouble" again.
Arizona Dec 2012 <3 great birthday present
Julee S
June 15, 2013
Fishing the Rogue River Summer 2012
Julee S
June 15, 2013
Enjoying the afternoon at Lake of the Woods
Julee S
June 15, 2013
At Crater Lake after Thanksgiving 2012
Julee S
June 15, 2013
Arlene Jones
June 14, 2013
Sandi, Kendra, Jarod and family. My heart goes out to you. Aaron was a wonderful man with a big heart. He will be deeply missed. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Colleen Aldrich
June 14, 2013
Aaron, I only met you a couple of times when you were with Jules. But, those few times showed me enough to know that you were a good man and very special with Julee. Thank you for adding such joy to her life. RIP my friend.
June 14, 2013
Keith, so sorry to hear of your loss, we have wonderful memories of Aaron when he was growing up. You and your family are in our prayers. Love Rob & Marcia.
Nancy Miranda
June 14, 2013
Sandi, thank you for bringing such a wonderful person into this world. The children and I love Aaron and you so very much. I will love him always. He came into my life just at the right time God wanted him to. Aaron was always joking around with me and the kids, one day on one of his visits to Redding, I took him to the farmer's market and took him to an egg vendor. I showed him a really cool egg and told him it was a Woodpecker egg. He was in awe because he had never seen one before. I told him to look closer and he realized the egg was made of wood. He laughed so hard he almost tipped over the strawberry table. The memory of you will always make me smile. Aaron, my loving friend, I will love you and honor our friendship forever...save me a seat, we shall meet again.
June 14, 2013
So thankful for the time we spent last year and the closeness we shared. Going to miss you Aaron. You were a miracle from the day you were born!! Love you...see you soon
Michael Ugalde
June 14, 2013
With prayers to all the family and friends.
chad alston
June 14, 2013
Aaron im sad I can't be there to see you off to heaven your a good man thank you for everything you did for my family you will be missed.
Tracy N Tyler
June 13, 2013
You were my best friend and my rock for 20 yrs. Always made people smile and find the good in things. You are the greatest man, father and friend I know. Tyler and I will forever cherish our long awaited year together, our fishing trips, house hunting, drives to the lake, all the evenings with your mom, and the time we got to spend with your dad and deborah! We love you and know you are with us <3
Julee
June 13, 2013
You are and will always be a great man to me. You added so much value to my life. Thank you for loving me SO MUCH! We had a great year babe! Love you with all my heart! XO
The Polley's
June 13, 2013
Aaron you will be greatly missed by all who knew you. When we drive by Anderson cabin, we will always think of you. Prayers to you Sandy and your family during this time. Heaven has a new Angel.
Mandy Hillard
June 13, 2013
Although I had not seen Aaron in many years I will always remember the great times we had from concerts to camping. Aaron was a good man. My condolences go out to you Sandy, Keith, Jarrod and Kendra. Aaron will truly be missed!
Catherine Davies Bennett
June 13, 2013
Sandi, thank you for your recent kindness to my family. My heart breaks for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Vickie
June 13, 2013
My Deepest Sympathy. You will be missed by many. You are now out of the pain you suffered for the last three years. God Bless
Susan Hiland
June 13, 2013
Aaron was a wonderful, warm and giving person. Anyone who knew him at all will miss him forever.
brandy mozingo
June 13, 2013
Aaron I'm so thankful that I got to spend time with u before you left us, you were such a huge part of my life and always will be. Thanks for dinner the other night , I will cherish that meal for the rest of my life, I'm sad ur gone but thankful you no longer have to suffer. I don't think I will ever meet a bigger JOKER than you, never a dull moment when u were around, lol. I love you so much and I'm going to miss you so much.
Fred Heard
June 13, 2013
Sandi...We know your heart is breaking. So very sorry. One of our great joys was to know your parents and also Keith's...and of course, we went to school together. Our prayers and warmest wishes are with you and your family. The Rev. Fred and Adair Heard, Cambria, CA
Jennifer Campbell
June 13, 2013
Thank you for all the great things you did for my family! They truly loved you like a son.... our hearts are hurting for you and your Mom. She was a rock going to the hospital everyday to be by your side. I know you will watch over her like she did for you!! Rest in peace Aaron, you are already missed.
Jennifer Campbell
June 13, 2013
I got to see Aaron over Mother's day weekend...and his Mom. Aaron stayed with my Mom and Dad for a week before he went into the hospital. He helped my Dad wire his new shop. Aaron was so helpful to my family and I truly appreciate it. Sandy, his mom, is a great woman. She stood by his side daily. God needed an Angel to wire something special.......he will be missed!! We love you Aaron!!
roseann sikes
June 13, 2013
Keith, I was so sorry to read about your son. My deepest condolences. You and family will be in my prayers.
Jeannie Coogan
June 12, 2013
You are in a better place. No pain and God is close by. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless...
Teressa Cahan
June 12, 2013
Will always carry the times we spent forever in my heart. You taught me many things and made some days that I felt like not wanting to live you turned them around and made me ok again. Without you here brings great sadness to my heart. I will forever be missing you
Mark Florence
June 12, 2013
Aaron,
Growing up you were like the little brother I never had. All the times that I spent with you and your family are the fondest memories of my childhood. From the many fishing trips, camping, many summer days in the swimming pool at your house, and all the family dinners that I was part of. You were such a great man, father, brother, son, uncle, grandson and cousin to all that crossed your path. RIP
Justin Halvorsen
June 12, 2013
Although we only spent a little time together, those times will always bring good memories I'll never forget.
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