President Dirk Smibert

In March of this year, Ryan's mission president past away due to cancer. Ryan and President Smibert were very close. He was Ryan's mentor and friend. He and his sweet wife have influenced our lives greatly. We spent a week in Australia at their home when we were first married. They came out here every year, at least once, and always made time for us... whether it was a dinner date, a dessert date or driving them around to their appointments, just so that we could talk in the car. They have taught us so much about becoming like Jesus Christ. I have learned many lessons from them in the 8 or so years that I have known them. They taught me that people come first and that heavenly father will let us know where to spend our time and how to we help and influence others. They taught me how to use time and not to waste it. They taught me that by making ourselves available to serve, the lord will be able to use us that much more. He taught ryan to be independently financially secure so that we are more available to serve. They taught us the importance of including our children in our callings, even if it seems taboo to others. They taught us the importance love, music and laughter in the family. They have taught us how to become more like Jesus. Ryan was able to fly out to visit with them before his passing. We will always treasure those few precious days they had together. The counsel and wisdom he received is priceless to us. They have such a big place in our hearts.