Iron Range institutions mourn death of longtime colleague Roy Smith

The Department of Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation and Minnesota North College campus announced the death of their colleague Tuesday, Oct 14.

Roy Smith of Hibbing died after a short battle with cancer.

The IRRR said in an announcement that Smith’s advocacy for the region was “unmatched, and he believed the Iron Range’s best days are ahead of us.”

Smith served in a dual role as the director of talent development for both institutions. Prior to that, he was a school administrator and educator for more than 15 years. He also served in numerous other roles, including as chair of the Northland Foundation board and as the chair of the workforce development and education committee for the Iron Mining Association of Minnesota.

He is survived by his wife Suzy and daughter Cheyenne.

Organizations across the Iron Range are posting tributes to Smith.

"Roy had a way of lighting up every room — with his energy, his laugh, and his belief in people. He was always building others up, always encouraging us to aim higher. He cared deeply about this region and everyone in it," wrote Kristen Vake, executive director of the Iron Mining Association of Minnesota.

"More than anything, Roy loved his family. He talked often about his wife Suzy and daughter Cheyenne — how proud he was, how much they meant to him. Our hearts are with them now.

"In honor of our dear friend Roy, I hope we’ll all take a moment to appreciate what we have, connect with the people we love, and keep chasing the things that matter most."

The Northland Foundation also posted a remembrance of Smith on Wednesday.

"Roy was the best of us; he tackled everything with joy, humor, and Iron Range determination. He had a unique job working for both the IRRR and Minnesota North College—at the same time. Over the years he held many titles, primarily focused on workforce or talent development. But Roy’s main talent was that of a connector," the post stated.

"Though almost always behind the scenes, he was the glue that got things done. Roy put a premium on getting to know people and cultivating relationships. He leaves a legacy of goodwill and accomplishments that will live on through the lives of the people he touched and countless others who may never know the role Roy played in making our region better."