M. Dean Smith

M. Dean “Deano” Smith, age 86, of New Philadelphia, died Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital at Canton following a brief illness. 

Born in Coshocton, Ohio on June 6, 1938, Dean was a son of the late Robert C. and Hazel M. Duling Smith. 

Following his graduation from the former Roscoe High School he attended THE Ohio State University and ultimately obtained a Bachelor of Science from Ohio University. Professionally Dean worked for the State of Ohio as a Bank Examiner. He had a special knack for mathematics which made him a perfect fit for his career.

In his younger years, Dean was an avid athlete having set numerous school records. He especially enjoyed playing soccer and baseball, and even softball into his sixties. To know Dean was to be keenly aware of his dynamic personality. He never shied away from sharing his thoughts or knowledge on any given topic during a conversation. He was also known to be generous and never gave a second thought to helping anyone in need. 

He also loved living life to its fullest having enjoyed the high speeds of his Vmax motorcycles and Harleys throughout the years. His greatest lesson is life which he often shared, however: “Life is not a bowl of cherries.”

He is survived by his sons, Matthew Dane (Cindy) Smith of Strasburg and Dr. Malcolm Derek (Mandi) Smith of Ponca City, Oklahoma; his grandchildren, Pierce, Hartley, Ellie Rose, and Simone; his brothers, Dale Smith, Dane (Nancy) Smith, Dan (Sharlyn) Smith, and Don (Liz) Smith as well as numerous nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his mother and father, Dean was preceded in death by a brother, David Smith.

In keeping with Dean’s wishes cremation with a private family service will take place. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia is handling arrangements.