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March 10, 2011 (Lakeside) --After a courageous battle with cancer complicated by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Richard “Rick” Allen Smith, 67, passed away peacefully at his home in Lakeside on February 18th. He held leadership positions on Lakeside's fire and planning boards, as well as the Chamber of Commerce and other organizations.
“His dedication to the community of Lakeside will have a lasting affect for many years to come and his experience and wisdom will be sorely missed by all who knew him," said his daughter-in-law, Michelle Dimsey. "He maintained his trademark sense of humor and “can do attitude” all the way to the end.”
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.
Smith worked closely with Supervisor Dianne Jacob to improve the community of Lakeside and maintain its small-town character. He was an outspoken advocate for the people of Lakeside on many occasions.
During a February 2010 meeting with SDG&E officials, for example, he pressed utility company representatives for answers on a meager amount of Sunrise Powerlink mitigation funds that would be allocated for firefighting in Lakeside. “How far do you think that will go? I can’t even hire a firefighter,” he said. “I might be able to fill the tanks one time.” He urged SDG&E to return with answers, but the utility repeatedly cancelled meetings with concerned Lakeside residents.
Smith also cast one of only two votes against firing Lakeside Fire Chief Mark Baker, during a meeting where community members overwhelmingly testified in support of retaining their Chief.
Smith was born and raised in San Diego to the late Jack and Mavine Smith in April, 1943. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including tours in Korea and Vietnam, retiring as a Sergeant Major. He settled in Lakeside in the early 1980s.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Velita, whom he met and fell in love with in Newfoundland, Canada. Together they had three children, Terrie Lynn Yandall, who lives in the Philippines, Kenneth Richard Smith, who resides in New Mexico and Cynthia Marie Smith of Lakeside. Smith is also survived by 32 treasured grandchildren and three great-grandchildren ,with a fourth on the way. Rick is survived and will forever be remembered by his siblings, Robert Smith (AZ), Jerrie Martin (CA), Jack Wrbanich (WI) and Paul Wrbanich (MI).
A self-taught computer whiz who provided countless hours of repairs and education to family and friends, he also enjoyed cooking, building and repairing things, considered himself a rock hound and loved all things Native American.
“Rick was the “go to guy” in his family and community for nearly any subject imaginable and touched the lives of many people with his generosity and willingness to help others in any way possible,” Dimsey said.
His wishes were that no formal services be held. However, a gathering of friends and community members in honor of his life and his contributions to us all will be held at the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds on April 9th, from 1-4 pm.
Condolences may be sent in care of the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce at 9924 Vine Street, Lakeside, CA 92040.
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