Obituary: Ronald Smothers, 82, Who Served Channahon Fire Protection District For 49 Years

(The following obituary for Ronald Smothers was submitted to Patch.)

Born January 7, 1942, in Cairo, IL. Died January 22, 2024, at Park Pointe Care Center in Morris, IL with family by his side. Resident of Channahon, IL for 57 years and member of the Channahon Fire Protection District for 49 years as a volunteer firefighter and District Trustee.

Preceded in death by his parents W. Eugene Smothers and Fannie “Sis” (Burns) Campbell, as well as his son Thomas in 1963, and godchildren Kelly (Hash) Pifer and William “Billy” Stewart.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart Joann (Fatland) Smothers and they were married over 62 years. Also surviving, daughters Rhonda (Mike) Callans and Jodi Denton, and bonus" daughter Lori Toth, grandchildren Travis (Ali) Denton, Alyssa (Bailey) Kelly, and Paige Callans, great granddaughter Georgia Denton and baby Kelly (due in May), sister Patricia Smothers and her children Kim and Greg Stewart, sister Linda (Ron, deceased) McKee and her children Laurie (Drew) Bullinger, Susan (Andy) Sarkisian, and Ronald (Alisha) McKee. Several great nieces and nephews also survive.

Ron retired in 2004 after 40 years in the trucking industry, ending his career with Maxwell Tank Lines. He was a long-time member of the Moose, NRA, and Teamsters local # 179. He loved camping, visiting the gun range with his buddies, and spending time with his family.

Per his wishes, cremation rites were accorded. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 17 th , 11 AM, at Faith Lutheran Church, 353 N. Midland, Joliet, IL 60435. Visitation with family from 10 AM until time of service. Private burial to be held at a later date.

Memorials in his honor may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, Channahon Fire Protection District, 24929 S. Center, Channahon, IL 60410 or Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.

Ron’s family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and kind gestures during this difficult time. Special thanks to the staff at Park Pointe and Lightways Hospice.

Arrangements handled by Farkas Funeral Home. Interment at Woodlawn Memorial Park.