Ronald James Smith 75 of Denver, Colorado formerly of Urbana died Thursday, November 12, 2009 at Rose Medical Center, Denver.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 21, 2009 at Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana. Entombment will be in Mt. Hope Mausoleum, Champaign. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Mr. Smith was born on July 14, 1934 in Champaign, the son of James Cleo and Hazel Quarry Cosby Smith. He married Merna Carol Marett on May 17, 1953 in Champaign; she died on February 13, 2005.

Survivors include a daughter; Dione (Gary) Benson of Denver, Colorado and one sister; Eleanor Manthei of Champaign.

He was preceded in death by one brother; Carl Wilkey.

Mr. Smith worked for the University of Illinois AG Communications from 1952 - 1994.

He was a member of The United Commercial Travelers, Champaign County Freedom Celebration, a drummer for the Spirit of 76, was a mason and served for many years as a Carle Escort.

He served in the Navy during the Korean War.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.