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Updated April 22 to add photos from the April 9th celebration of life.
A Celebration of Life, Service and Dedication to Community
April 3, 2011 (Lakeside) The El Capitan Stadium Association has offered the use of the rodeo grounds for a community gathering honoring Rick Smith, who passed away on February 18th, 2011 following a long battle with cancer. A celebration of his life and service will be held April 9 from 1-4 p.m. at the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds.
Smith served nearly 30 years on the Lakeside Community Planning Group, including eight years as Chair. He also spent nearly 20 years as an elected director of the Lakeside Fire Protection District, including several years as President, before retiring last year. His civic leadership included serving as President of the Fire Districts Association of California and on its board of directors. In addition, he was past President of the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce and received the Harry J. Spence Citizen of the Year Award in 1999.
“Rick was a leader and a true public servant who dedicated 30 years of his life to the community of Lakeside. His wisdom, laughter and generosity will be missed by all who knew him,” says his daughter, Michelle Dimsey.
Several notable individuals will be speaking about Smith’s legacy, including Chief Andy Parr of the Lakeside Fire Protection District, Linda Strom of the Lakeside Community Planning Group, Supervisor Dianne Jacob of the County of San Diego and Senator Joel Anderson of the 36th District of California.
The gathering is open to all local residents who wish to honor Smith.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be sent to:
The Rick Smith Memorial Fund c/o The Lakeside Chamber of Commerce 9924 Vine Street Lakeside, Ca 92040
Comments
Rick Smith's Celebration of Life
May I take a moment to thank everyone who attended and particularly the key speakers at my brother's Celebration of Life April 9th. I was very moved and humbled by your compassion and love for my younger brother. I did not know just how involved in the Lakeside community Rick actually was. I knew he was busy when I phoned him or we talked by email. He kept it a little low key as to his actual involvement. I especially what to thank the Lakeside Rodeo Association for the space to hold Rick's Celebration. Also a big thank you to the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce who was deeply involved as well.
RIP Brother,
Robert Smith, older brother
Prescott, AZ