Ruel Clyde Smith passed away on April 13, 2008 in Orem, Utah at the age of 86, surrounded by his family, who love him so very much! Ruel was born on July 25, 1921 in Glenbar, Arizona to Hyrum Leroy Smith and Laura McBride.
In 1943 he moved to Overton, Nevada to teach music at Moapa Valley High School. His love for life and music and the people of Moapa Valley brought him rich meaning and fulfillment. With his amazing musical abilities, he taught and encouraged the best in others and helped build up one of the finest music programs around.
On March 6, 1954 he married Marilyn Harmon in the St. George LDS temple, and they began their little family, which was the happiest time of their lives. In 1957 he underwent exploratory brain surgery which took many of his exceptional abilities from him. Instead of teaching music, art, photography and Spanish, he began teaching us patience, guilelessness, unconditional love, loyalty, sweetness and gentleness through his example.
He loved painting, photography, reading, traveling and directing the annual Messiah. He loved being a husband and father. He was always the best dad! He is survived by his 3 children Michelle (Steven) Nielson of Orem, Utah, Angela (Michael) Chapman of Mission Viejo, California, and Roland (Tammy) Smith of Overton, Nevada, 18 loving grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and brother Val (Elva) Smith of Syracuse, Utah.
He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn Harmon Smith and 8 brothers and sisters.
Funeral services were held Tuesday April 15, 2008 at 1:00 PM in the Sharon 2nd Ward Chapel, 641 S. 400 E., Orem, Utah with a viewing prior at 12:00 noon. Interment was in Orem City Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sundbergolpinmortuary.com
He has been our personal bit of Heaven on Earth.
