New York Mills Police Officer Loses Battle with COVID-19

NEW YORK MILLS (KDLM) – A New York Mills Police officer has lost his battle with COVID-19.

Officer Ron Smith, 58 passed away Dec. 15 after serving 14 years in law enforcement.

Smith was admitted to Lakewood Health System in Staples on Nov. 26 and then transferred to Duluth where he was put on a ventilator.

Smith served as a police officer in New York Mills, Perham and Wadena, and as a part-time deputy with the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office.

“Ron touched many lives throughout his career. He was invested into public safety and was always willing to go the extra mile to help out anyone in need. Ron will be missed by so many but his legacy will live on forever,” the Wadena Fire Department said in Facebook post.

A funeral service will be held for Smith on Tuesday, December 21, at 1:00 PM, at the Motley Free Methodist Church.