Lonnie Harris Smith

Lonnie Harris Smith, 71, of Ronan, passed away at St. Luke Community Hospital on May 7 in Ronan. Lonnie was born to Rob Roy and Fran Smith in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 10, 1941. He grew up in Box Elder, Mont. Lonnie graduated from Northern Montana College in 1964 with a BA in History with a minor in Art. A man very much defined by the place he lived, he especially enjoyed Montana history and creating pottery. He volunteered for service to our country in the Army National Guard and Reserves from January 1964 through December 1969. Lonnie Smith will be fondly remembered by the many people he touched throughout his life. He was a devoted husband and father and valued member of the community. Lonnie was most known as the Art teacher for Ronan High School, where he retired after 34 years of teaching and serving as a representative for the MEA and NEA. Lonnie “flunked” retirement, and went back to be involved with the school in the capacity of bus driver, during which time he hauled kids across mountains and through all weather to music and sports activities, in addition to the daily bus route. He was a constant presence in the Sacred Heart Parish through the Pastoral Council and Knights of Columbus. His open nature, ready smile, his generosity and willingness to help those around him have benefitted family, friends, students, church, his community and our country throughout the years. Lonnie was very involved in his passion for Model A Fords and will be missed by his fellow antique car club members. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and is survived by his best friend and wife of nearly 48 years, Marie; his three children, Kelly, Lea and Tim; and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, George Smith of Livingston and Cameron Smith of Great Falls. A reception was held at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall in Ronan on Friday, May 10, from 4:00-6:45 p.m., followed by Rosary vigil service at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ronan on Saturday, May 11, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service with military honors at the Ronan Cemetery under the direction of Shrider-Thompson Funeral and Cremation Services. Reception was held after the graveside service at the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Lonnie’s name.