Colton Ross Smith

Thank you for sharing Ross with myself and the Alopecia community. He will be sorely missed by all! Prayers for the family and friends of this wonderful man.

Beth and I just learned of Ross' death in First Report. We are so sorry. He was a good friend, and an inspiration in the way he handled his illness. We are thinking of you all. Tom and Beth Schmid

Willa, Shereen and Shawnie and families,
I was shocked to read of Ross's passing. It's been a while since I last saw him so I was unaware that he was ill. I will always remember Ross and the three of you as wonderful neighbors for many years. My favorite recollection was when Ross and I did battle with the city over street trees -- and won! Ross was so good to so many people and did so with a great heart and love for everyone around him. He will be missed by many. Arlys and I send our condolences and prayers for strength to all of you. -- Bill Eddy, Lincoln

Willa and family,

Ross was one of life's true gifts to his family, friends, co-workers, clients etc.
He touched so many lives in so many positive ways. He was an outstanding counselor and an icon in state DVR. Kind, compassionate, excellent listening skills, made time for anyone, sense of humor and no negative statements. He was an advocate for many and voiced his concerns professionally with the administrative staff. I can hear his laugh, see his smile and heaven got a true gift with him. I enjoyed our many talks on some many different topics. He had a special way of making people see their potential and increase their self esteem. He loved his family and so proud of you. Hold on to your memories and support each other as we all cope differently. Love, Nicki Walter and Family

Dear Willa,
I am so sorry to hear about your Ross's passing. You always said, "He is the love of my life," and I hope you and your family will be sustained by your loving memories of him.
Sincerely, Kathy Cain (Former Holmes Teacher)

Ross Smith was the nicest person to know. You will be missed by many people. Thank you Ross for helping me out, always going the extra mile for our group. You took care of so many people.
Willa, he always spoke so kindly of you.

Willa
We are so sorry for your loss!
Our prayers & thoughts are with you.
Hope some day you can come back to swimming!

Eunice & Elliott Jagels

Such a kind man. It was my pleasure and honor to have met you both and been involved in Ross's cancer care. I will remember you two when my Hollyhock's come up next spring. Hoping that fond memories dry your tears in the days to come. Kim

"Ross was an angel on earth to me at a time of deep grief. He always went above and beyond the volunteer he was for hospice. He will always have a special place in my heart." Michelle Emerson (Austin, TX)

Getting to know my uncle later in my life only made me wish I could have known him sooner. His kindness and generosity to those around him and beyond is known by many. He has left a wonderful legacy for his children and grandchildren by just being himself, showing them what is truly important in life. It's not fancy homes or cars but the compassion you give to others is what really matters. He was as quick with a laugh, and at times a corny joke, as he was with a helping hand where ever he saw a need. I quickly grew to love my uncle Ross as I did all my Nebraska and Texas relatives. And from them I learned that, even through his horrific pain, he wanted to make sure they were okay. That's the kind of man he was even up to the end. I'm glad he's out of pain but selfish enough to wish he had one more trip to Oregon so I could have another wonderful hugh hug from my uncle Ross. You are loved by many and your passing has left a big hole in our family! Love, your Oregon niece Kathie

He was always the best, the kindest, ever thoughtful, loving, and most caring brother-in-law who will be missed; but he left us with many memories that will last till eternity. Ross exemplified his Christian beliefs by always acting for the betterment of others. His love and kindness for his four nephews was a God Send expecially when they had a Dad stationed in other countries. He was, indeed, their second father and remained that his whole life. We were so fortunate to have this extrordinary, special man in our lives.

Ross was a very special person. I see how many lives he made better just by being. His compassion for those he knew and those he had never met was something that was natural for him. The love he gave to friends and family is well known. He must be so proud of his children and grandchildren. The love for him is seen in every comment they write, every word they say and for every picture taken with him. I remember the times he drove out to Portland to visit. It took awhile as he would take Willa to any quilting store she was interested in seeing. He is out of pain now and we are left to feel the pain of his loss. We will meet once again and until then I will cherish my time with him. My love and prayers for his family and friends. Love you, Uncle Ross.

Ross was an extraordinary man. Dedicated to helping others, working within difficult circumstances, always trying to do the best for others. Never met a person that wasn't a friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.

The whole neighborhood misses you, Ross, for your walking the Pup and for your personal good cheer! Willa, call any of us for help, and we will see you the 7th and long after! --Bruce and Sandra

"Another Lincoln High Job Well Done."

It is that smile, that wisdom and that sense of humor that I remember fondly. There were days that I just needed encouragement and someone to believe in me. Ross always took time to listen and to give me advice. He was a great leader and worked diligently helping others to be the best they could be. Through the years I worked for him, he was advocating for others and making things happen. He was compassionate, kind, a man of great faith, and loved his family fiercely. He didn't complain to me about his own pain or difficulties..he went forward and lived his life, giving endlessly of his time and energy. I am and forever will be in awe of the person he was and I will never forget our lunches during and for years after we left VR and our talks about life and his way of always making me feel special over the years. I will miss him beyond words. Rest in peace, my dear friend. We are all just passing through this temporary home. I will see you again someday soon.

Willa & family,
Ross was a very special friend for many, many years. I will always remember and respect his kindness. He was so proud of his family. God's blessings to each one of you. Gloria