September 22, 1956 - January 6, 2004
Officer Stephen Smith was born September 22, 1956 in San Bernardino. He attended Cal Poly Pomona and graduated in 1984. He became an employee of UC Riverside that same year and spent his first 10 years of service with the Physical Plant department. In 1994, he became a police officer and gave UC Riverside 7 additional years of service. During his time with the UCRPD, Officer Smith was involved in many assignments and projects. He played a major role in the department's bike patrol unit and was not only a member but an instructor and mechanic as well. He also helped design and construct the police station's courtyard and assisted with the maintenance of the station's outside landscaping. In addition, he participated in department sponsored youth soccer clinics and child safety fairs. He was a member of the University Neighborhood Enhancement Team. Officer Smith was promoted to the rank of Corporal, was a Field Training Officer, and later worked with the Detective Unit.
In 2001, Officer Smith transferred to the UC Irvine Police Department. While at UCIPD, Officer Smith continued as a bike team officer and participated in several of the department's major events and programs. These included the department's Open House, Annual Teddy Bear Drive, RADkids Program, and the Baker to Vegas UC Running team.
On January 2, 2004, Officer Smith suffered a heart attack while on duty. Officer Smith was taken to a local hospital where he passed away on January 6, 2004.
Officer Smith was 47 years old. He is survived by his wife, 2 adult children, his stepson, his parents, and his 2 brothers.
The memorial service was held on Monday, January 12, 2004, 1:00 p.m. at the Mariners Church, 5001 Newport Coast Drive, Irvine, California 92612, southeast of the UC Irvine campus.
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