Ryan Joseph Smith
  • Born on: September 16, 1986
  • Departed on: September 6, 2023
  • Resided in: Marion, IA

Ryan Joseph Smith

Ryan Joseph Smith, 36, of Marion, Iowa, passed away September 6th, 2023, after a brief but aggressive battle with cancer. Ryan was born Tuesday, September 16th, 1986, in Denver, Colorado, to Keith and Shawna Smith.

Ryan was a self-proclaimed nerd, an undefeated "Worms" champion, and a video game enthusiast. He loved Marvel, Star Wars, video editing, kayaking, fishing, creating art, and cinema. He was a music lover; Gorillaz, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jimi Hendrix, and the Doors were among his favorites. He was a dog lover, an amazing friend, and a beloved uncle, brother, cousin, and son. 

Ryan lit up the room with his big brown eyes, charismatic smile, and incredible sense of humor. He had a deep passion for science and a vast knowledge of the universe. He loved rainy days, and the night sky.

Ryan is survived by his parents, Shawna Swain of Cedar Rapids and Keith Smith of Marion; brothers Micheal (Darlene) Smith of Marion and Andrew (Katie) Dickson of Dixon, Ill.; sister Lyndsay Franks of Cedar Rapids; Nieces Magik Carlton, Journey Franks, Story Linvell, Willow Smith, and Leila Dickson; nephews Legend Franks, Drew Dickson, and Wesley Smith; special cousins Kendra Coleman, Michael Dickson, and Jeffrey Dickson; his friends family, known as the Circle; as well as many other beloved cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. 

Ryan is preceded in death by his cherished Nanny, Rose Marie Macfarlane; Papa Fred Dickson; Grandparents Yvonne and Paul Smith; Aunt Mary Bisland; Cousin Todd Weaver; and lifelong best friend, Tony Willett. 

A celebration of life will be held on his 37th birthday, Saturday, September 16th, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Van Vechten pavilion. The celebration will be a potluck, so please bring a dish to share, as well as photos and memories of Ryan. 
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