Obituary: Smead, Ben W.
Age 82
He was born in Spokane, WA to Hugh and Nellie (Wilson) Smead on October 2, 1932.
He graduated from West Valley High School in 1950 and joined the U.S. Air Force.
After his military service, he joined the Spokane County Sheriff’s department and was a Deputy Sheriff from 1964 through 1985.
He met Ruth Gardiner in 1967, whom Ben later married.
He loved the outdoors and riding with the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth; six children, five stepchildren, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and two very best friends, Leo “Red” Harman and Don Harman.
Ben is preceded in death by his wife of 23 years Jo Anne Kent 2003, parents, brother, and daughter.
We want to extend a very special thank you to the Little River Care Center and Horizon Hospice for their respect and compassionate care.
A memorial is planned later in the year.
Ben will be greatly missed by his family and friends.