Roman Gabriel Smith of Tipp City, OH, died April 2 at his home after a two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He was 47. Mr. Smith worked for the past 12 years for Freshway Foods of Sidney, OH, as the director of procurement. As a graduate of United Fresh Leadership Program and Cornell Executive Leadership, he was respected across the nation as a leader in the area of fresh produce.

Mr. Smith was born June 4, 1972 in Greenville, OH. Mr. Smith grew up in Greenville, OH, and graduated from Bowling Green University in 1995.

“The produce industry lost a very respected and accomplished leader with Roman’s passing," said Devon Beer, president of Freshway. "Roman handled our produce, packaging and in-bound freight contracting and was loved by all those he worked with, both inside and outside the company. Roman enjoyed great respect from those he worked with. Above all else, he was considered fair and reasonable. You get nothing done in this industry if you are not a team player and Roman was the consummate team player — and man was he a fighter. I have never met anyone stronger and more determined.”

“He was well respected in the industry for his character and personal integrity," said Melissa Olsen, director of national accounts. "To many of us at Freshway, he was like a brother.  The dry, witty, funny brother that often-poked fun, but also welcomed it with open arms.  He had an unbelievable talent for being able to lighten the mood and bring smiles to our faces. We will miss him dearly every day.”

Craig Cotner, purchasing manager, said, “Thanks for teaching me so much more than I could have ever imagined, both personally and professionally.”

“So many great memories of Roman. He will always be in our hearts and prayers,” said Dan Purdy, Freshway Foods vice president of sales and marketing.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife, Tina; two sons, Peyton and Caiden; and his daughter, Kenna.