Ronald W. Smrha

Ronald W. Smrha

Cedar Rapids

Ronald W. Smrha passed away on April 20, 2023, leaving behind a life that was filled with love but was ultimately cut too short. If you knew Ron, you no doubt have heard him say something along the lines of “Oh, don’t go making a fuss over me.” But as we reflect on Ron’s life and the impact he had on so many, it’s hard to imagine anyone more worthy of attention. We hope this writing will make

him proud as a retired journalism teacher!

Ron was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Milo and Agnes (Chmelicek) Smrha. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, then began college at the University of Wisconsin. Ron returned home to Iowa to finish college, where he graduated from the University of Iowa as a proud Sigma Chi fraternity brother.

Ron dedicated his professional life to education, beginning his teaching career in Clear Lake before returning to Cedar Rapids and Jefferson High School. Ron was the yearbook advisor and taught journalism for nearly 40 years, including summer journalism camps at the U of I. His work was recognized on many occasions, with honors including the Award for Distinguished Service to Scholastic Journalism, induction into the Iowa High School Press Association Hall of Fame and the Gallery of Excellence for Yearbook Designs, and numerous other awards for teaching excellence.

Beyond any trophy or plaque, we think Ron’s proudest achievements as a teacher were sharing the love of journalism and having a positive impact on his students’ lives. Even decades later, it was common to hear “Hi Mr. Smrha!” from across a grocery store or restaurant as a former student spotted Ron. As word spread of his passing, many tributes were shared on-line by former students, including professional writers and TV newscasters who credit Ron with inspiring their careers. Knowing that Ron meant so much to so many has brought comfort to his family as they mourn his loss.

Ron’s service to education continued in retirement, where he was an active member of the Iowa Retired School Personnel Association and served as president for many years. Retirement also gave Ron time to pursue his other passions of gardening, taking day trips with Donna, spending time with his family, and of course adding to their collection of chicken artwork and decorations.

Most of all, Ron loved his friends and family. In 1970 he married the love of his life, Donna Nasheim, in Mason City, Iowa. Ron and Donna had one daughter, the apple of his eye, Shantelle (Nathan) Franzen; and one granddaughter, Taylor Franzen. They all survive Ron along with Ron’s sister, Dolores Lynn.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Dorothy Ehlers, Arlene Wiley, Margaret Atwood and Lillian Heath.

Ron’s family will greet friends and family from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, at the Cedar Memorial Chapel Stateroom in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 27, at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Interment will be in the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, where Ron will rest among the peace of beautiful trees and fountains in honor of his love for gardening.

Online condolences are welcome at www.cedarmemorial.com, where a livestream of the funeral service will also be available. Memorials may be directed to the Journalism Department at Thomas Jefferson High School.