HS SWIM: Ex-Crespi All-American dies of heart attack
Ron Smith, a former All-American swimmer at Crespi of Encino, died late Saturday from a heart attack shortly after being inducted into the school Hall of Fame. Smith was prounounced dead at Encino Hospital. He was 47.
"My heart was torn in two the next morning when I heard about it," said Harry Welch, a fellow Crespi alum who served as master of ceremonies at the Hall of Fame event. "He looked great. His brother looked great. His whole family was there to honor him. What a trajedy. I send my prayers to Ron Smith's family. I'm deeply moved."
In 1980, Smith won two Southern Section individual events, as Crespi finished No. 2 in the section. He went to Utah State on a full scholarship. In the 1990s, he was a top competitive bass fisherman.
Smith is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ferrone, and two daughters.
-- Gerry Gittelson
As a classmate of Ron's at Crespi, my prayers are with his family and friends. Our Class has lost two (Ken Bendix) within a week. Just more proof that life is short and when the game clock of life reached :00, there is no overtime here.
Last Saturday night started out as a celebration of Crespi's best and celebrating 50 years of of Celt Men. Ron was one of the shining examples. His acceptance speech was not about his accolades, but rather about personal experiences, friends, and his family.
Ron's run the race to the finish. It's up to all of us to have his back and support his family.
joe from the 74