Obituary of William J. Smith

William James “BJ” Smith, 26, of Solon, passed away Tuesday, July 11, 2017 at the University of Iowa Hospitals after a lifelong struggle with Muscular Dystrophy.

BJ was born June 7, 1991 in Iowa City; son of William and Cynthia (Maier) Smith. He graduated from Solon High School and Kirkwood Community College with a degree in computer science.

BJ grew up being a goodwill ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and worked the fishbowl at the telethon for many years. Later in life he developed a love for BBQ, especially smoking foods and hosting events, video gaming and attending motorcycling events where he was treated like a true brother.

He is survived by his parents, Bill and Cindy Smith; sister Tori Pinney and her husband, Brian; two nephews; maternal grandparents, Don and Virginia Maier and Judy VanNorden; numerous cousins, aunts and uncles and dear friends who were as close a brothers.

A celebration of BJ’s life will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, July 15th at the Hills City Park shelter where a potluck and time of gathering will follow. A memorial will also take place this fall in Conesville.  Memorials in BJ’s memory may be directed to Camp Courageous or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.