Rest in Peace Midget
We will all miss him.
A Memorial Paddle Out has been scheduled for Sunday, September 7, at the San Clemente Pier. Click Here to download and print information using Adobe Acrobat.
Here is a thread on Midget from the ERbb.
And from friends in Texas, elrideintl.net
Please feel free to leave your thoughts of support or stories of Midget on this site.
By admin • Aug 23rd, 2008 • Category: Lead Story
You will be missed…but never forgotten…Aloha Midget
WE WILL ALL MISS YOU, BUT I KNOW YOU’LL WATCH OVER US ALL. I’M SO GLAD I GOT SEE MY UNCLE BEFORE HE PASSED. HE WAS A GREAT PERSON WHO MY KIDS AND I WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND RESPECT FOR BEING A GREAT INSPRIRATION TO SO MANY PEOPLE.. OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY..
Jeffery “midget” Smith was my dad. He was loved very much and we will miss him so dearly. Thank you to every one for their kind words and messages. He was a truly great man. he is at peace now ridding the waves in the sky.
So Sad. I used to bug him at the Hobie factory when I was a little grom Another master has passed. Say hi to Velzy.
Sometimes you can learn so much from another person. I have always admired Midget’s work ethic and the true passion he had to make each and every board “magic” . There were many times that I would have a freind who had never surfed before that wanted to start and needed a new surfboard. When the board was complete, I would go with them to pick it up. Each and every time I would be blown away by all the little details on the board. There was never a short cut on how the board was made even though the beginer would never know the difference. He always shaped and did his best. Adios my friend, I’ll see you across the boarder some day.
Midget Smith was a surfer who gave back in as many ways possible. He shared the stoke by making state-of-the-art boards for his loyal customers. He dragged his good friends down to Mexico to key into some of the best pointbreaks in the world — before there were WCT contests there. And he was a fair, level-headed judge for decades, giving young surfers an accurate contest-by-contest gauge on how to improve their surfing. I still remember the event Midget gave up an 8.5 for one of my waves. It was never easy getting an 8.5 from Midge. My throughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. Midget will be dearly missed.
Midget shaped me my first custom surfboard. I picked it up from him at his his house, and I’ll never forget how stoked I was when I first held it under my arm. That was over 20 years ago, but it seems like it was just yesterday. There was a good south swell running that day, and we surfed cottons. The board worked insane. Whenever any of my friends, or I needed a board, Midget always came through for us with a magic board at a magic price. He was so generous. Not only was he a great surfer and shaper, but he was a great person to have as a friend. Midget will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and loved ones.
Really sad to hear this. We’ve lost a good one for sure. I was lucky enough to have a few boards shaped by Midget in the past. Always liked talking with him over the phone. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends.
My name is Dennis Nease, unless you were a pier local in the 70s you wouldt know the relationship Midget, and I had. To Sarah, Midget was like my father also, he became my legal guardian in approx 1974 when my parents moved to the east coast, and I refused to go, I lived in his garage on Rosa street up from the pier. Midget made me go to school at S.C. High, and warned me that he better not see me in the water, until school was out. And I could go on and on, I can still remember individual waves Midget ripped to shreds, he also coached myself, and the other pier rats, and he stuck up for us, when the establishment came down on us. Midget was a true fighter, I remember one really huge day he convinced me to paddle out with him at cottens it was breaking out in the kelp beds, and he watched me like a hawk, and made sure, I didnt drown, it was a good day, it buily my confidence, I am now a federal police officer working in Washington D.C. when I found out yesterday I was breaking down all day long, during my 12 hour shift, and today I am all messed up. My thoughts are with his family, to Sarah, because Sarah your dad, was not my blood father, but he was my father in many many ways, he was there for me when my blood father was not, Midget taught me so much about life. I still love Midget, and always will. As Midget would always say Peace Out to all, Pier Rats live on. Dennis Nease
I had the great pleasure of meeting Midget a few years ago, while surfing fish pass here in Corpus Christi Tx. He had just dropped off a bunch of boards at Tippy’s shop (Dockside). What a great guy! So cool, laid back, easy to talk to. Asked him to shape me a custum board and man what beautiful board it is. It’s my favorite board ever. Over the years we continued to talk via e-mails, talking about surfing, giving answers to my questions, his travels to contests, and about wave conditions. When he told me his cancer came back I was heart broken, We had spoke before about his cancer and the cancer I had removed, so it really hit home. I did all I could to help with his medical bills and always was in my prayers and he knew that. I guess what I want to say is God bless you Midget, I’ll never forget you, and all you did for me. You are missed, and that this world has lost a truely good person.
I don’t want to ride anyone else’s boards. Thanks for everything Midge. Thanks for welcoming all of us into your home. Thanks for the sarcasm. Thanks for the best boards I ever had. Thanks for all of it. We love you and miss you. Rest.
always loved ridin my uncles old boards from him sad to know he’s gone but he’ll be ridin the waves for all time now…
Wow, Midget…..what a stand-up guy. So sorry for the loss. Will cherish the last two shapes he made for me.
Jeff will be missed and will never be forgotten. I know he is with my Dad now looking down on both me and my cousin Sarah. My heart is with you Sarah and I love you very much! My love is with the rest of my family.
Jeff you be loved and missed dearly. He was a inspiration to us all. I know he is up there watching over us and surfing the waves in heaven. Sarah, I love you so much, my heart is with you and the family.
Midget was a really cool guy I met through a friend back in 1993. He was very patient, caring and had a wonderful sense of humor. One of the great shapers as far as I’m concerned. I still have a couple of his boards. I had Midget make a board made for my wife, “after having a baby” I wanted her to get back in the water. When Midget was done he asked me to bring our new son down to “surf circle” where he shaped and dipped my sons feet in blue paint and pressed his little feet on the nose of the board. Needless to say my wife loved it. The board doesn’t make it out much anymore but still looks like new. Yesterday when I heard the news, I went straight for the board and saw those little feet prints on the nose and could not control myself. He will truely be missed by friends and family. Take Care Midget, rest peacefully my friend. Aloha
Rest in Peace old friend. You have, and always will be in the hearts of all those you touched in your yrs in SC. You were the BEST of the SC surfing community. You will be sorely missed. I will always remember you in the surf shop back in the 70’s and tearing up Lowers and the Pier. The trip to CR in ‘01 was awesome and will always remain a fond memory for me.
Jeffery “Midget” Smith, a true ICON of a surfer and a true example of a human being for us ALL.
My friend Cliff introduced me to MIdget about ten years ago. We were the guys from Texas that came out to judge the nationals at Oceanside. My wife,Tippy, and I had purchased a surf shop and were looking for boards. We hooked up with Midget and never looked back. He was the most genuine person I have ever dealt with. He cannot be replaced. We miss him, we loved him, and there is a hole as big as Texas in our hearts. Via con dios compadre
As a surfer and judge, Midget was ahead of his time. As a shaper, he had the magic touch. As a human, he showed the rest of us how it should be done.
Midget, we are all richer because you were a part of our lives. You will be with me at every session and on every adventure as long as I can make it out to the line up. You will be in my heart as long as I live. Thank you for being my friend
Midget,
You are awesome and I valued our friendship over the years. I will never forget you.
Aloha friend.
Mark Moreno
Midget and I surfed against each other in the early ’70’s and he was a fierce competitor - but, he always welcomed me at his home break at San Clemente. We both made the jump into judging and had so many great times seeing our sport evolve to what it is today. Midget was and still is - an inspirtation, icon, and the standard of what a true friend should be. He shaped me so many great boards - and I’m glad that those boards are still in my quiver (never get rid of magic boards!). The Surfing America board of directors passed a motion on Sunday, August 17 to honor him with an annual “Midget Smith Award” for the judge who exemplifies the dedication, integrity, commitment, and work ethic that he displayed as a judge. This year’s recipient is good friend and legend Jack Shipley. I will miss Midget’s spirit and sardonic attitude - he always put us in our place! My prayers and thoughts go to his family.
Midget is the definition of a character, someone who is full of personality without even trying-gracious, energetic and hilarious! Fortunately, I got the chance to get to know him a few years ago and enjoyed every moment/conversation I had with him. What a great loss to his family, friends, surfing and the community! Rest in Peace…my thoughts and prayers are with you all!
A great man with a great life, a great family and great friends. You know you’re a blessed man when you have lived that much life in that time period..ALOHA….
I had the pleasure of working with Midget on several events the past 8 years, he was always so dedicated as a judge or head judge, he loved the progression of the sport and everyone loved working with him. I’ve leaned allot from Midget and I will never forget his friendship and presence.
I didn’t know Midget as long as most and I didn’t go on any epic surf trips with him like others have told me about. In fact, aside from small side jobs we would work on, most of the time he would be shaping away in his room, or the door would be open and he would be with a customer so I could only call out “Midget” as I passed by. Apparently he did the same thing at Hobie which is weird because he always seemed to be coming from a surf and you could get the latest conditions from him. So I choose to only view this recent nonsense as a temporary setback and now he is free to get back to doing what he loves, surfing and shaping everyday.
We have lost a true legend. Midget will never be forgoten. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Midget,
Surfea las olas del cielo.
Adios
Aye Brother Midget!!
I celebrate your life and the fond memories ~ my first “Natural Design” Rocket Fish you shaped, 204 and T-Street sessions, how many contests? (you fived me to death!), your sense of humor and that smile (bordering on mischief always)… I am proud to call you a friend and commend you for planting the seeds for me, my kids and their kids to be.. A terrible loss to our community, never to be forgotten~ A true pirate …
Well wishes and my condolences to his family and friends..
gt
So sorry to hear but i’m sure he’s in a better place now. I was fortunate to compete against Midget in the 60’s during the WSA days of 3A and 4A rating systems. Never did come out in front of the guy. His roundhouse cutback was like butter even way back then. Midget became a great inspiration to all of us for the rest of his life. See you at the next perfect pointbreak buddy. Sean…
When I think of Midget, I most recall his laugh. He did that a lot. And his sarcasm: awesome. His humor and outlook on life: priceless. Midget was a rare man. I will miss him dearly.
Midget shaped my first surfboard when I was 8. I still remember it like it was yesterday. Thank you for decades worth of friendship and amazing surfboards. You will be missed.
What a great guy. Midget really personified the San Clemente local. Seems That at least every one of us had a Natural Design or Midget at some point when we were groms. Midgets shop was a fun pit stop on our bike ride home from school. He was always good to the kids around town. It was a treat to have him judging the longboard contests and he always had time to give tips on how to do better. I’ll miss seeing him on his daily walks into churches this fall while I’m on Patrol.
Best regards to his family and close friends
Jeff Kramer
midget smith was my first shaper, he gave me soo much from amazing boards to insight on contests. I rememeber being far from home by myself an arriving at a airport for a contest not knowing where to go an out of the corner of my eye i see midget waiting by the carousel for his luggage and at that moment i was relieved to see his familiar face and hear his inviting chuckle. I am so lucky to have been able to know midget and my prayers go out to Mary lou, chris, maureen and pat
Well we all love you Midget!!!!! and the stories we could tell, but Midget Smith was a man of integrity and loved Marylou (his soulmate). Midget brought integrity to the art of judging in surfing. He will be missed for his wisdom and advice to judges. oh yes and for the boards he shaped for all of us, his shaper soul in shapes will be missed. pax tecum = go in peace
tom
Midg., I was always honored to be on the same judging panel as you, or overseen by you as Head Judge. The Stubbies @ Oceanside, past NSSA, Bud Pro Tour Makaha or North Shore, all of them were THAT much better by your presence and knowledge, your clear and instantaneous decisions. As one in the judges’ pool for Hawaii and your island we ALL were made better judges by your guidance and ’sight’ . And that means we were all better people when we were part of you. That says a lot to me and your Hawaii crew over here…Bernie Baker
Midget was a true San Clemente legend, progressive free surfer, shaper, head judge. He dedicated his life to surfing and I know he’s free and surfing his brains out right now.
Life on this earth is short, and Midget left behind a footprint that will be remembered forever.
We will not stand at your grave because you are not there, you are everywhere.
God Bless, Aloha.
No one personified the stoke of surfing or the commitment to the community of San Clemente more than Midget Smith. When you think of competitive surfing and Southern California, you think of Midget Smith. If you lived in this town for 30 years you know how important his contribution really was.
He has a fabulous family and we are all honored to have known him.
Aloha, Midget.
Midget,
You will be dearly missed and I am very blessed to have known you. Much love to you and your family…you are always in my heart and prayers!
Midget,
Thank you for shaping my first surfboard! It was the first board I ever painted and learned on years ago. Thank you for your support in my art, thank you for being such a wonderful person to work with and to be around. You were always so nice in person and in the water. I will miss surfing with you and painting your amazing surfboards. I will miss just walking by your shaping room and bugging you! But I know you always be around in spirit. I am so happy to have known you. You will always be missed. Thank you.
i will miss midget so much - everyday airbrushing, no matter what, the ritual was the same - midget would be in his room shaping and i would step in and say good morning. we would figure out what the surf was doing and make our plan to leave at some point during the day to go surf church.
i can not even begin to explain how much he touched my life and how honored i feel to have been friends with the man - midget smith.
love you midget!! i will miss you dearly!
i aquired a midget smith board last december from dockside in corpus christi and have enjoyed every session sense i had been looking for an all-rounder for a while and spied this one on a winter afternoon look see at dockside. said hmm… have to think about it. got home two hours later and realized my mistake, frantically called tippy, made it clear to her i would definetly p/u the next weekend. have been great friends ever since. t thanks.
It’s comforting to know that Midget was surrounded by loved ones towards the end. Our thoughts go out to the family.
When I first started with the Bud Surf Tour in 1991 Midget was the Head Judge and Mary Lou was the tabulator. I had the thankless task of bringing the PSSA onto the ASP Tour and thankfully, because we had surfed competitively together in the 70/80’s we had a good understanding that developed into a great working relationship.
I had many responsibilities with pro surfing in the 90’s but one thing I never had to worry about was whether the judging was going to be spot on or whether the judges were organized or anything that Midget was taking care of. He was that sort of guy….absolutely reliable. We dealt with a lot in dealing with the ASP through the 90’s and I thought it showed a total lack of respect and poor judgement when the ASP phased him out as the Head Judge in the US. How often do you find a talented guy that is totally reliable?
Midget and Mary-Lou were both always there to help and are some of the un-sung workers that make US surfing tick over….as you can see with the resurgence of the WSA amateur series.
The big money in surfing doesn’t see the contributions that people like Midget and Marylou make but there are thousands of surfers who owe their competitive experience to these two.
Midget. I am glad the suffering is over. Save a spot in the lineup for me.
Marylou we love you.
Ian and Alisa
SImply the best human being I”ve ever met ! My friend, tutor, master. MIdget you will never be fortgotten ! Thanks for all you’ve done for me !!!!! I will always love you as a friend !!! A True friend !!!!!!
Midget taught me so much about judging and I feel very fortunate to have gotten to spend so much time on the judging panel with him, he was one of the best by far. What he taught me that I remember the most was how to be humble. Midget was a very highly respected everywhere he went, especially here in Texas, he was treated like a rock star here but he never really let it affect him at all.
Midget was a humble person and a great man by all standards. He will be severely missed by all his friends, but especially by his Texas friends.
Cliff Schlabach
Head judge Texas Gulf Surfing Assoc.
I will never forget those summers staying at midget and Mary Lou’s, some of the best times of my life.. Midget always made sure we had good boards under our feet and all the food we could eat. Fuller, Merle and I would not be where we are today if midget and Mary Lou had not been in our lives early on. Thanx for all your help along the way midg, I’m sure you will be keeping us in check from up above. Stoked I got to see you before you moved on
-Aloha,
-Aamion Goodwin
Growing up in SanClem in the mid 1970’s, Midget Smiths boards were THE boards to own. There were other cool local shapers in town, but it was definitely Midgets boards that made a statement. In the mid to late 70’s, he basically was the bridge between the 60’s guys, and the 80’s kids. Midget Smith was one of the early pioneers in the development of the Twin Fin, a craze that hit full force and took off in the early 80’s. In 1980, I was 15 years old, at San Clemente High, and in the early 80’s, pretty much all legitimate shredders at SCHS were riding his work. At that time, there was still an older crowd that could be respectfully defined as purist, and many of them did not initially believe the short board twinnie to be legit, but Midget was a shaping visionary, and he realized that speed and movement were the future - and this was almost a decade before aerials and floaters became mainstream. In those high school times, there were occasionally good natured discussions about boards with guys from Laguna and Newport, and I might remark that MS is a San Clemente Local and he shapes our boards, and the LB and NB guys usually had no reply.
Midget Smith. He, was a friend of mine. And oh what a friend he was! Chris told me about Midget’s last trip to the hospital - how he was so weak that they could no longer give him treatment or therapy for his cancer. We both knew we wouldn’t have Midget with us much longer. I flew down to San Clemente to visit him two weeks ago. There was no way I could let him go without seeing this wonderful man again. He was a friend of mine! We talked about surfing and shaping and judging our kids and Mary Lou’s kids - all the things we’d shared over the years. And true to form he inspired me once again to be a better man.
And why is he such an inspiration to all of us? I can’t count the ways! If there was a job to be done, he’d get it done. If he had reason to complain, he would not complain. If you were down, he’d pick you up. If you needed some stoke, he’d provide it. If you needed to laugh, he’d make you laugh. If you acted a fool, he’d let you know. If you deserved a 2.0 for that wave, he’d give you the 2.0 - if you deserved a 9.5, he’d give you the 9.5.
We had a QS to judge at Seaside Reef in the early 90s. Midget had come down with an intestinal virus the week before in Costa Rica. He had surgery on his intestines. Tony Sutton Jr and I visited him in the hospital and he was pretty darn sick - he could barely acknowledge that we were there. Two days later he was on the podium making sure we were getting the job done right. How inspirational is that? I can’t count the number of times I’d go back to the hotel after a days judging totally spent and Midget would go to the shaping room and knock out two shaped blanks because somebody was expecting their board.
On that last visit with Midget we talked about an opportunity my son Kalu may have to work for Eric Arakawa on the North Shore. I told Midget I hoped Kalu would sharpen his tools when the opportunity comes his way. Midget replied, “If he’s half the craftsman you are, Steve, he’ll be just fine.”
If I can be half the man Midget was I’ll be grateful.
“May God bless and keep you always,
May your wishes all come true,
May you always do for others
And let others do for you.
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung,
May you stay forever young.”
Vaya con Dios mi amigo !!!
Midget was my first surfboard sponsor 20+ years ago through Josh Conlans father. I lived in Ventura and didn’t even know this awesome person that shaped me boards for a great price and I was so stoked. Some years later he met my aunt and became family. He has been such an inspiration to me for years. He has been true to the art of shaping and devout to the life and love of surfing. He ripped. Always positive and happy. I miss you greatly Midget and will love you forever. Everyone out there with a Midget board should pick a good day surf it and hang it on the wall forever. Love, Demian
When I was younger I was scared of Midget. I really was. He judged me and I never seemed to be able to make him happy with my surfing. Then when I made the change from a surfer to a judge Midget scared me as well… Mostly cause I didn’t know that his sarcastic humor wasn’t really directed at me His humor would always make the judging panel that much more fun. I learned more about what good surfing was from Midget then anyone at that point. He was a great teacher and a judge as well as a person. I was lucky to work with Midget for many years and I will miss him greatly. Midget’s legacy is more then a shaper/surfer/judge, he is a friend and father and husband as well. My thoughts are with all that knew Midget and his family.
Matt
We were so sad to hear of Midget’s passing. Two months ago, when I was in SC, I really made a point of going by to visit him. I was surprised to have him only spend a little bit of time with Mary Lou and I because he had to go to work, check the surf and visit with his buddy! I left there that day, knowing I may never see him again, and sad because I knew that Mary Lou would be without her “soul mate”.
We had so many good times at the old WSA and USSF contest. It was crazy, but I look back on those times as some of the best. I can remember Midget always had a funny story or something to say to everyone, always with a laugh. Midget also was a great teacher, always taking the time to explain to some kid what they should do to get a better score. He really did have a lot of patience.
Years ago after one of his surgeries, I would go and visit him in the hospital. We would spend hours it seemed just talking, not really about surfing, but just about life in general and decided that there wasn’t really anything that we could do to change the outcome.
Midget, thank you for all that you for all of your encouragement to Geoff. Thank you for your patience with competitors. Thank you for being such a great dad to Sarah. Thank you for your example of dignity to Mo, Chris and Pat. Thank you for all the years of friendship and most of all thank you for loving my friend, Mary Lou.
Aloha, Terry & Jane Moysa
I only met Midget a little over a year and a half ago. He was the kindness most graceous gentleman I every met. His honesty so refreshing. Midget was also very giving and sharing in his knowledge which he gave so freely. He had patience with my wife and I while working together on a project that is rarely seen from any other. We learned so much from him and will remember him always.
God Bless Midget and all his loved ones!
Surfing has lost one of the class acts in it’s sport. Through his kindness and humble personality, always caring for his fellow surfer, whether judge, competitor or just another happy board customer. Midget is up there at heaven’s lookout, checking the line up, overseeing the scores, the rides. Aloha and Malama Pono Mr. Smith.
We have lost another legend. Midget smith put san clemente on the map and made it what it is today.. He will be watching over us everyday we surf, see you in the barrel midget. Midget is up there surfing the most perfect trestles he has ever surfed.My prayers are with you and your family.
He was a great man with a huge hart! and no matter how early it was in the morning judging contest he would always have something to say to mess with me haha. and if it wasnt for Midget i probably wouldnt have made it through any heats. thanks midge rest in peace and you will not be forgotten<3
So it goes that we lose another friend. Thank you so very much for your endless comedy, your wonderful laughs and all the boards you made for me the last 35 years! Thank you for running the judging on the funky scaffolding at the “No Tollroad Surf Classic ” that without you and Reynolds would have never happened.Midget Smith was a great human being–a great friend to all in San Clemente but most of all a surfer.
Thanks and god bless all the family
hey boy
A real classic, quick with the verbal jab, and fast to laugh. Lifelong motivated surf grom!
Ultimately kind, with a wry sense of humor, and a huge heart, yet constantly humble. You will be missed by all whose lives you touched. It is my sorrow, that I never got to say goodbye, always figuring you’d beat this like you did 23 years ago.
I remember those cold days in the PSSA and Bud Tours on rickety scaffolding with no protection from the elements, in the formitive years of professional surfing. You were sometimes sick as a dog, from the chemo, yet, you never failed to cheer us up with your caustic comments. You were the glue that held the panel together.
Life may have been harsh at times to you, but you were loved by so many. So in the balance, you had an excellent life in this world. I hope your transition was easy, and the waves are good and hollow for you in the next.
Thanks for sharing a part of your life with me, you will be greatly missed. I still have one of the boards you shaped for me, as it was too execellent to let go. I’ll get it wet in your memory this week.
My heartfelt condolences and Love to Mary Lou, your family, and all who feel your loss.
Rest in Peace, Brother! And catch some great ones!
To My Dearest Friend
Midget I am so sorry I was not able to see you before you left. Now I dont know what to do, I grew up with you, life took me in another direction . I am not sure if I should be sorry about that, but I do know, you are with me, and still watching over me, as you did when I was a young little rat in San Clemente. You were like my father, as you were with me, more than him. My dearest Midget, I will miss you here on mother earth, but I will see you in heaven, as I will continue to be a good person, in which you had a great deal to do with. I love you Midget. Peace Out
Aloha Midget,
Seems like a while since we last connected. I remember meeting you for the first time in 76′, talking with you about a seventeen year old grom, Joey. I couldn’t figure at the time why he lived and surfed Carlsbad, and drove all the way to San Clemente to ride your boards. I should have known that wings will fly, and boy did Joey ever on your boards, all the way to the Pipe Masters.
I had not married yet and had no children, but that moment, made me realize, San Clemente, and people like you and Mary Lou are what the community is all about…Loving, sharing, giving, laughing, joking and calling a spade a spade, because you really care.
As time went by, your actions spoke louder than words, and inspired me to join this community in San Clemente and raise my family here. All the good things you have done will not only be remembered but will continue to inspire us to be the best we can be.
God Bless you Midget!
TG
Midget was genuinely loved and so respected by loving family, friends and surfers who knew him, all I ever heard were great things about a very special man.
God bless all of you at this time.
Aloha, Colleen
Midget Will be missed by me and every who has ever ben in his life. And this camp will keep his name forever. The best shaper we ever had,This wave is for you midget….
Pescadero Surf Camp
Midget was one of the nicest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing. He shaped me the best boards I ever received and always had a kind word to say whenever our paths crossed on tour. I’m still convinced that Jeff’s intimate knowledge of the world, its surf and secrets has never been and never will be eclipsed by anyone in the history of man - he was one of those people who just knew everything. His contributions to the sport of surfing as a competitor, a shaper and a judge cannot be overstated as his dedication was palpable, touching the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. My heart goes out to his family and close friends as we’re all feeling a bit of a hole now in our lives now. However, I’m confident that Midget would condone little if any wallowing over our loss and probably tell us to paddle back out and harden up. Miss him all the same though.
Midget was more than just a mate - to me he was like a father and a mentor all rolled into one. I first met Midget in Brasil with Kurt Page as we were all going to be judging the Longboard tour for that year. Ever since that day, Midget has guided and helped me in so many ways that words can’t even express. He took me under his wing and touched my life like nobody else ever has. He and Mary Lou would let me stay at their house for months on end, he would lend me money whenever I needed it and just look after me like no one else. He had a major hand in molding my judging career and also has mentored me in shaping surfboards to which he was a master. Last few months were very hard for me to see him so ill but Midget still had his witty sense of humor giving shit about why I hadn’t shaped this or that and just generally keeping his sprits high. I will never forget all the judging trips we wen’t on around the world like Perfect J bay, sharing a room in Spain barely big enough to swing a cat in. I owe Midget a lot and I’m not really sure what I’m going to do without him. He really was a legend and a great man and feel so very blessed that I could call him my mate.
Anyway Midget I have a bottle, of Bundy and some tim tam’s and I’m about to have a couple for you tiger.
RIP
Tim Marshall.
Midget was one of the greatest guys in the world, i had the pleasure of growing up with his family and him shaping my boards since I was a kid. They have always welcomed me into their home and for that I have always been greatful. I am proud to have known Midget and he will forever be missed. God Bless You Midget!
With Love,
Jeremy
its not hard to see why san clemente has turned out so many world class surfers.
without midget shaping cutting edge boards for decades high performance surfing would not be where it is today
jeff you touched all our hearts and kept many guys surfing on the best shaped boards around
REST IN PEACE BROTHER
from one original pier rat to another
BOB SMALL
I remember my first trip to California, after the Santa Cruz event he invite me to stay in his house, he take me to surf, to get dinner, drove me back to the airport, and he don’t even knew me. He treat me like an closing friend. After that we did some trips together and I can tell you guys, Midget had a wonderfull life, he enjoy every minute. In our last trip together to Virginia (When we shared rooms) last year he told me about the cancer.
I’m sad to not have ‘meu amigo’ hanging with me again but I will keep him alive in my memories and with everything I learn from him.
Rest in peace my friend and see you sometime
Midget is an icon… a true classic surfing personality. A man obviously admired and rightfully so. I pray that I am half the man Midget was and that I leave behind half the legacy he did.
You will be missed.
Mike Phares (& Michelle & Madi, too)
When I was a grom Midget scared the living crap out of me. Now that I’m pushing 30 he still does a bit. I remember walking into the house as a grom and standing in awe looking at the racks of boards in the “living room”. Every time I ordered a board he gave me grief about my weight. When I was a kid it was “that’s it?” The last board I ordered was “That’s it? I would have guessed more.” Thank you Midget, if it wasn’t for you I might still be a sponger. Love to the Drummy family and the thousands of others that are hurting due to the role that Midget has played in their lives.
Midget, you will be greatly missed by many for the joy you brought into their lives. I will think of you every time I paddle out on one of the boards you shaped for me. I know you’re riding some great waves somewhere right now.
Midget, as I write this I’m staring at your funky stick man logo on my snapped-in-half Middles board. It adorns my garden where I see it daily. So, even when I’m not surfing, you’re reminding me to get back out in the waves. You shaped me an even better one from the two halves I brought into your shaping room. Thanks for all the boards you shaped for me over the years. I am honored to have known you.
The first time I met Midget, i was about 8 years old skiing with my dad up in mammoth, and this man I had never met before, decided to help me with my ski skils, by the end of the day I was flying down the mountain with no poles with a new nickname “BULLET”. He was a dear family friend and he will forever be remembered.
I first met Midget as a DynoComm Cameraman working on the PSTA. As most of us have experienced, he is the kind of guy that you like to be around. Fun to tease, and to be teased by. After leaving the industry a few years ago I’ve always looked forward to running into him down at Basham’s while picking up supplies. I’ll really miss that, as I have for the past few months. I know that there is a place for good men after this life, and I know that Midget will find his way there. All my best to those of us who remain behind. What a great example he has been, and what wonderful legacy he leaves for us to enjoy.
Midget, You will be missed!!!!!!!! I just wanted to say thanks for all the great enthusiasm and support that you gave me at the WSA’s and USSF contests and later at the Pro contests. It was always fun talking to you after a heat and you giving me insight on how to get better scores, but we always found a place to laugh at the same time. I was always blessed to have you as a mentor and as a great family friend to my family. You were always family to us.
Bri and my thoughts go out to Mary Lou, Mo, Chris and Pat. Thanks for all the great memories!!!!!!!
Geoff and Bri Moysa
A true legend ! I will never forget everything Midget and Mary lou have done for me ! The list is endless ! They opened there home to me and made me feel welcome as a young surfer traveling from Santa cruz ! I still have a magic board midget shaped for me i will ride it and cherish it always ! Such a humble and Amazing contributor to the Sport of surfing ! Midget will be missed but never forgotten !!! I can picture him saying something like Whatevas !!!!
A true Legend !!!!!
Thanks for all the great Times…. See you on the other side bro…..
Homer Henard
I always enjoyed seeing and talking to Midget these past 15 years. I remember so many events growing up and seeing him at the beach always with a smile, and it seemed he was excited to see every person that walked by. He will truly be missed and his family will be in our thoughts and our prayers.
Tim Curran
RIP MIDGET SMITH. you have always made me the very best surfboards and always did everything with a smile. i will miss you and your smile very much. i was so happy that i was able to visit with you on wednesday before you died. I will see you once again midget…
Andrew Palmer
midget smith is and will stay a legend in the surf commuinity. i didnt know him personally, but what i do know about him is he was a stand up guy in and out of the water and a great role model for the up and comming generation of surfers to look upto. he will be greatly missed by all who knew him and many who just knew of him. but continues to be inspiration to the good people who strive to stay pure and positive in a world of mass conflict. rest in peace and may all your barrels up in heaven be clean and and glassy. peace and much love hope to see you in surfers heaven. eamon
Midget Smith was a surfer. In every sense of the word. He shaped some of my first custom boards and didn’t mind me coming into his shop to watch him do it. He always seemed to be planning another surf trip. He was always positive, no matter how he was feeling. It’s amazing to learn just how many people his life has impacted for the better. He will be missed.
what can you say? Midget was no doubt THE MAN ! love midget and my whole quiver is all pro circuits at the moment, i loved talking story about boards and surfing with him he always had some knowledge to drop. much love from down in san diego RIP SD MAYER
One of the truest and most honest ‘Watermen’ I have had the pleasure of knowing. Perhaps what I admired most about you; was that you ‘walked it, like you talked it.’
Enjoy your next wave life,
James Pribram
I never got to meet Midget but I became very friendly with Chris Drummy. I am on the board of the Dean Randazzo Cancer Foundation here in New Jersey. I know how hard it has been over the years to watch one of best friends battle this horrible disease. So when Chris told me what was going down this must have been over a year ago I went right to our Foundation and said We have to help Midget. There were no questions or objections what so ever. This is what our Foundation was started for. It’s also kinda cool because we also donated $12,000 to Jason Bogle during his bout with cancer and he also rode Midget’s boards. We never got to help Midget, not because we couldn’t but you can read why for yourselves. This is al letter I asked our Foundation President Adam Walcoff to send me because he dealt with Midget directly. It shows what kind of person Midget was and there aren’t many like this in this day and age!
Bad day for the surfing world, for certain.
I only spoke to him through email, but when he was initially diagnosed, there were a lot of events for him due to the fact that he had no insurance and income was a problem due the treatment he was getting. So Dean and you sent me the info. He spoke to Dean directly after his diagnosis. I contacted Sean Haggar offering our help. I was concerned after awhile because I did not hear back from Sean or Midget.
Then, I got an email from him. He says that the fundraisers for him were an unqualified success and that he was fortunate to be picked up by MSI, a county run medical program which he was hopeful would cover a substantial portion of his bills. He told me that he did not think he would need any financial assistance from the DRCF.
He wrote to me, “that is a good thing in my eyes, you can now help someone else who may be more deserving. Thanks for the offer And if I can be of any assistance to you, please call on me!”
Pretty amazing that a guy suffering like I am sure he was, up against it financially despite the other sources of support, would ask us to help someone “more deserving.” Incredible guy.
Please send my condolences to his entire family and ask if there is anything the foundation can do.
Thanks Nick.
PS, people should know this story about him. It really says a lot about his character
What can i say about midget…he gave his life for others shaping boards until he couldnt anymore. All the times that i ever saw him he had a smile on his face and was always a positive influence. i havent gotten every board since i was 11 from him. he has not only been a determental force in my surfing but my life in general. we have lost a truely great man he will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
It is wonderful to have known and worked along side such a kind hearted and gentle man,thanks Midget for all the great memories we had on the tour ,i’ll never forget the time in Puerto Rico when you were racing the rental van around the house and slammed into a stack of bricks,Lynn and I will miss you,you lived your life with humility,God Bless to you and your loved ones
Midget, I will miss seeing and building boards with you. You are a true Ledg.
aloha,
chris
GOD BLESS , YOU PLAYED A PART IN SOME OF MY BEST MEMORIES.
YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR AND GENEROSITY…………………………………..
THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER TIME LIKE THAT…………………………
PIER RATS RULE…….
Midget was,is and will always be San Clementes greatist surfing hero. I grew up in San Clemente from 1963 to 2001 before moving here in Puerto Rico. In that time I can honestly say that I had never met person who was so didicated to the sport and the spirit of Aloha than Midget.He was like a father to many of us who didnt have one and a best friend to all,next to that he made great surfboards in the 80s that was the only brand you would see at 204. I could go on and on the good times and his wit,I learned so much from him as did many others I am sure.We love you Midget!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Through all our journeys, we get to meet some very special and unique people.
Midget to me, was one of those unique and special people. Straight up!
My family sends our thoughts and wishes to his family and friends around the world.
Happy Trails…. Rich, Stephanie, Rena Marie and Eva Rose Richardson
WOW: Midget was a strong person and very calm, we surfed together. judged together for many years, traveled the world, he was a great shaper for the sutton family, we all loved him and he will be missed ” Aloha” my friend
I am very blessed to have gotten to know Midget very well the past couple years. I owe my whole life, lifestyle and where I am today to Midget. I got a desk job right out of High School and stopped surfing all together. About 2 years ago Midget offered to shape me boards and help me get back in the water. It was his passion for surfing and his amazing boards that made me find the love for surfing again. At the beginning of this year I was able to quit my job and pursue surfing again. Midget, I want to thank you for all you have done for me. I am going to miss your sarcasm, passion, stories, surfing, and most of all hanging with you in your shaping room. Midget Smith is a legend and his legacy will live on forever. You will be missed but never forgotten…
Love you Midget
To Sarah,
I think this may be an appropriate time to share how much you meant to your father. 20 something years ago when your dad was in a Los Angelas hospital dealing with the first bout of cancer, I went to visit him. I was young and Midget was a major part of my life. He did not look well when I left him that day. He later told me that when I had left he was tired of fighting and was ready to give in but as fate would have it his little girl came to visit him. Midget said that right then and there he found the strength to keep on fighting .As you know he recovered and was able to be around enjoying life for another 20+ years, Thank you Sarah for allowing all of us to share your dad for this long. If it weren’t for his love of his daughter we may have lost him back then. Your dad was a great man. I will miss him.
My best to your family and Mary Lou, as well as all the Drummy family.
With love,
Andy
Midget dedicated is life to surfing and for that he will truly be missed. I have always had much respect for Midget as a surfer and a friend. I’ll Miss you
Alhoa
Midget, You will be missed!!! Me and my son Dylan will always remember the epic trip through Baja where we got to know you . Me and my brothers used to fight over which one of us would get to ride the midget which was the board we all learned to shot board on (Thanks Midget!). Dylan says hi, and we will always remember the great times with you !!!
God bless you and your family - Mary Lou, Sean & Moreen, Robbie, and others!!!
Midget,,
From the time I first met you in Corpus, then you invited me to a session at Churches when I came to CA you treated me like you had known me all my life. What a fantastic person you are. Surfers the world over should take a page from your book, I know I will.
Rest, brother,, youve earned your place.
Bless your friends and family..
(Sunray)
I haven’t known Midget for as long as some of you, and I don’t remember the first time I met him. What I do know is that when I did find myself on the judging tower with him, it was like I had known him all along. I think everyone that ever judged with Midget walked away with a greater understanding than before, and probably a good dose of humility.
I have an enormous amount of respect for Midget Smith. I know he has opened his door to so many when they needed someone, and he has given so much to the surfing community at large that it seems unfathomable. My heart goes out to his family and I will miss him.
-Nick
Midget shaped my son’s first shortboard (via Kurt Page) and it was epic! He shared his shaping room if needed and would always welcome me whenever or wherever.
Thanks for all you gave back. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
da
i only had a few boards from Midget over the years…..i always looked forward to delivering blanks to him. he would always toss me a back-handed compliment, coupled with some wity sarcasm….got me everytime. he took the time to shoot the breeze and talk a little story and pass along a little knowledge and for that, he has my respect forever. i’m stoked i got to hear his tales of another time in san clemente. my thoughts are with his family…..aloha!
rym
From the first time I met Midget ’til the last time I saw him, he always had a good word, and a big smile. Thanks for ALWAYS representing something positive in life.
I was stoked to work with Midget for 15 years. Not only wsa it a pleasure but a honnor. I Love him as a man a surfer and shaper, Becuse he talk no shit did his work on time, And paid when he said he would .He will allway be a legeand in S.C.and my freind…..
Rest in peace
Brain Coyne
I had the pleasure of sharing a judges tower with Midget at just about every event held in North America from 95 to 2005. He was always a great leader. He was never scared to speak his mind. He would always let you know exactly what you were doing wrong but would also be the first to praise you when you were on your game. Midget was always a bit tougher on me than most other judges when I first started judging for The ASP, but once I got a bit older and wiser I realized he was only trying to push me to be the best judge and person I could be. Everything I achieved in that respect was largely due to Midge and I am forever grateful.
Mary Lou Drummy is one of the sweetest, caring, and giving people I have ever met in my life. She always treats you like part of her family, she has an outstanding knack for seeing the good in people. Her son Chris and I have been friends for 17 years and he reflects those same qualities and exudes that passion in everything he does in life. My heart go out to the Drummy’s. Mary Lou, Maureen, Chris, and Patrick as well as the entire Smith family.
Midget will be truly missed by those he shaped for, as well as all of the friends he left behind in the industry. one thing is for certain…………..His knowledge of and passion for surfing will never be matched, he is a truly irreplaceable figure and a LEGEND and those dusty old shoes full of foam dust are one pair that can never be filled.
Worked with Midget as a judge and enjoyed his style and dedication, I also enjoyed him as a surfer and individual. My condolances go out to Marylou, Maureen, CJ , Patrick , Sarah and the rest of his family members and friends. He was a great guy and will be missed.
Midget was almost too generous. I’d ask him how much I owed , and he’d throw out some number that was $50 less than going rate…I felt guilty paying relatively so little for such a finely tuned craft. I figured he made up for it in efficiency….NO ONE could ever shape a high quality board as quickly and accurately as Midge… he’d be running up and down the floor, breakin’ a sweat, and I’d get nervous thinking he was gonna gouge the rail, or take too much off the deck. But low and behold, 20 minutes later, you were pleasantly gripping the finished product, super excited about how that board was gonna work once it got glassed.
Obviously, Midget was an extremely skilled shaper and talented surfer, but there are many of those out there. What made him unique is his kind, generous, humorous, fun loving spirit, which you don’t come across too often in the self indulgent world of surfing.
Midget was a one of a kind, straight up class act. Mary Lou, Sarah, Chris, Pat, Mo and Sean…I’m really sorry for your loss.
I met Midget several times through the years. When he judged the Katin, when he was up in my hometown surfing with my dad and his friends. I never thought he knew who I was. I moved to San Clemente from Oxnard for a while in the 80’s. Jim Hogan and I lived in a little tiny place. We surfed the pier a lot and Jim would go to get boards in Surf Alley. One day we saw Midget. He looked straight at me and asked, “how’s Oxnard been lately?” I about fell over. He knew me, where I was from, and offered to shape me a board. “It should work in The Bowl,” he said.
That was Midget to me. Always there with a story, advice, a smile, and the knowledge to back it up. He had been where I wanted to go, and had already done what I wanted to do. He was a great guy, and a legend. I just got an email from Jim Hogan. He is flying home from his place in Costa Rica. he’ll be there for the paddle out. We both will.
R.I.P. Midget.
Brandon
Midget, I can’t tell you how special you made Andy’s birthday this year. As we pulled up his words were, “Hey there’s Midget.” As we got out of the car his words changed to,”Is Midget here for me?” That was your impact on many of our lives. As all above have said, You have touched us all. Thank you for giving all that you did. It made us all a better person.
Saha, Our meeting was very brief some 20 years ago, but your dad said the same words to me as he said to Andy. You are is everthing. As I watch my little girl grow he has said “enjoy ever moment”.Simple but meaningful words.
Mary Lou, our aquaintance also was brief. My love goes out to you as well as the rest of your family.
I am so thankfull that you gave your time to my life.
I love ya man,
Ax
Jeff! You blew my mind when you hit your stride! I regret not ever telling you, Chris.
Midget… I’ll miss you man so much. Everytime I drag an 11′3 past your room I’ll here your laughter and sarcasm ” Agh hah, Better you than I”… I am so lucky to have had you as a friend, I am so grateful for all the shape shack stuff and knowledge you shared. I’ll never forget how you sold my mom a pair of web gloves right out of you van in front of old Natural Design at XMAS. Your web gloves, wet sand and all… I didn’t care, I was 13, and so stoked cause they were yours! Thanks for everything Midget, love you man, I know your ripping apart those prefect rights in heaven!
Midget, I will miss you and your patience with the sport and your desire to make it better and enjoyable for all of us. You gave more to me than you can ever have imagined. I learned from you, that you have to do what you say your going to do, to the best of your ability. I will remember you and talk about your tails and thrills and we will look forward to that fiesta in the sky some day together.
Aloha Nui Loa,
Your Mazatlan crew member.
James (aka Fabio)
When I reflect on Midget’s life I can’t help but be reminded of the verse ” The king will reply, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matt 25:40)Thanks Midget for always making time for anyone. Thanks for making the experience of getting a board memorable, enjoyable, and educational. Thanks for being a living example of putting others needs before your own. When I thought you were just shaping my boards, I didn’t realize you were shaping my life. You’re one of a kind Midg!
I remember Midget as a very nice man. He was always really cool to my brother and I and he always made us feel welcomed at those Drummy family get togethers. This place is a little less friendly now that he’s gone and he will be missed. Drummy’s, I’m sorry for your deep loss, please know that you’re in my prayers.
Todd
Aloha Midget,
I was born in San Clemente in the late 50’s and a pier rat sense I was in dypers along with my sister Sheri and she is 7 years older than me. I can remember when the pier was a brutal place to call home. Run by bikers and thugs when the police would stay away for fear of localism. As far back as I can remember I can remember Midget was the Man in charge. Back when the sport fishing boats would park outside the pier at night before the harbor was built, I remember the boats having to take to sea for the swells were braking outside of the end of the pier. and lo and behold a small group of surfers were out charging when no one else had the balls and Midget at the front of the pack. I can remember in aw at the things he could do on a single fin in the early 70″s when it wasn”t even a thought in the mind of others. Midget was in the 60″s and 70″s to SC locals what Archy was in the 80″ and what Jami O is in the present. I will never forget him laughing at me for backing out of a set at the pier and saying your sister would have gone. To San Clemente pier locals Midget Smith was to our home what Jerry Lopez is to pipline. A true legend, mentor, friend, and big brother. Your legend will not soon be forgotten. Something comes to mind for those who are having a hard time with your loss. The night Uncle David Nuuhiwa passed away he told me dont cry for me after I am gone, cry for me while I am still alive so I can see how much you truly love me. Well Midget we trully love you and will forever miss you. We know you”ll be getting it good in Heaven. Pull into one for me. Aloha my friend. Don Crummer
Midget always put up with us groms at his shop on El Camino. He’d ask us about this new music he was listening to, genuinely asking us if we liked it. We’d make fun of it, give him a bad time, typical immature kids, I guess. But, I remember seeing in his face that he felt it and I wondered why I would blurt out stuff like that. We ALL got our boards from him, really looked up to him. He looked out for us, giving me an undeserved discount on a board once for a failed sign I painted on his shop glass door. I dreamed of paying him back that debt in person, some 29 years later, knowing he probably wouldn’t have remembered me. I got that opportunity, sort of, during his latest bout, only it wasn’t possible to contribute in person. It didn’t really matter though. What does matter is that I remember how he treated us kids and I have in turn done a similar favor he did for me to many others. Thanks Midge.
I GOT TO KNOW MIDGET FROM PAT AND CHRIS DRUMMY AS WELL WHEN I USED TO DRIVE TO BASHAM’S TO PICK UP BLANKS. HE WAS SUCH A HARD WORKER AND ALWAYS IN GOOD MOOD, WHAT A LEGEND, YOU BE MISSED!
ALL THE BEST TO MARY, CHRIS AND PAT
Midget you were a great and wounderful friend , Josh and Casey are better people for knowing you god bless. Love the Vesque family
Cheers Midget
In the short time I knew him it was inevitable that I would come to repect and admire him. As a judge and surfer but more importantly as a person. Even down here in Southern Africa his loss is felt
Hamba Gahle Mfwet
Midget Smith personifies how to be great human being. Even with his exit from his physical shell, his energy and soul is still with us, watching over us, living in the hearts of everyone he knew and those whose lives he touched. He is a true legend and will be remembered for the way he lived his life, full of honesty, compassion, and support. Whether busting out a sick magic board to make someone’s life that much more amazing, or giving some advice to young hopefuls on how to turn their 5.0’s into 8.0’s, or opening his home to share a place to sleep and a meal to eat, this legend was always about providing service to improve other’s lives. These are just a few examples of the many ways he helped others, along with living his life by example, showing through his actions how to be a quality person with respect and care for others. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to get to know him and his amazing family, as they have done so much for me through the course of my life in so many different ways. I can say that they easily have provided the most support and had the greatest impact on my surfing development as a kid growing up in southern California and I am forever grateful. It was always a pleasure to see Midget’s smile at every event I attended, and reassuring to know that he was on the judging panel so there would be no need to wonder about scores; with him there I knew things would be on point. His integrity legitimized professional surfing, removing the ambiguity of subjective scoring by being consistent and solid; he knew what good surfing was, and was happy to congratulate you when you achieved and and ready to put you in your place when you didn’t. I am truly sad I won’t be seeing his smile until my journey here ends, but it is still with me in my heart, and now I can only see it when I close my eyes. To MaryLou, Chris, Maureen, and Pat, your whole family has been an inspiration to me and I wish you all the best. If there is ever anything I can do to repay you all for everything you have done for me, I know I don’t need to tell you but please feel free to let me know. I hope to see you all soon, so we can celebrate the opportunity we were given to have had Midget influence and impact our lives and show us how to live our lives as model examples of the true potential a human being can achieve. Rest In Peace my friend, until we meet again.
Aloha,
Zachary Keenan
I love you Midget. You were always a friend and a great guy. I know how much you loved Mary Lou and your Daughter. You’ll be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in Peace brother…
Rob Caulfield
Midget made me laugh. His comments were laden with sarcasm and tremendous wit, yet laced with care and guidance. I was fortunate enough to sit on a few panels with Midget and will always remember laughing hysterically while learning from his knowledge. He took care to make sure every heat was judged fairly and adequately, even at the lowest levels. I respected him instantly as a judge, as a surfer, but above all as a human being. The testimonials from everyone on this page lend such a great perspective on all of lives he blessed. Midget I hope peace is upon you and the lineup is pumping on the other side. Best to the Drummy’s. He will be sorely missed.
Nicasio Latasa
Midget is the man, we will all miss him dearly. He was greatly respected and loved by everyone in San Clemente.
When I was a kid, Midget was the best surfer in San Clemente, and probably California. We all looked up to him and we all rode his boards. He was a master of the twin fin design, both at shaping them and riding them
I will miss him at Mariposa, checking it early on any big swell.
Midget let me shape my first board in his garage in San Juan the first time he had cancer almost 25-years-ago when he was home recovering. Probably the last thing he wanted to do was help me learn to shape, but he did it and with a smile.
I got to visit him last week and drink a toast to him and tell him I loved him, and he still had a few of his witty one liners, even when he knew he didn’t have much time left.
Midget lived a great life and helped out many.
Thanks Midget for everything!!!
We love you. See you on the other side.
Pier Rats for Life. Aloha. Cole
Comfort and Peace be with you, Jeff’s family. Thanks for sharing him with us.
A good man indeed.
Shalom,
Garrett
Midget was my brother in law. I got to see him a few weeks ago at home along with his family. He will be terribly missed, what a he was a great/giving person he was. I know he’s in a better, less painful place now…Miss ya bud, Love Jon
Growing up in San Clemente the beach was the place to be and we all had it and still do.I just want to say Thank You Miget for making the stoke of surfing even better. San Clemente has lost one of the best and most loved local surfer shaper and friend.We will alway feel your stoke every time we paddle out here in SC.God Bless you and all your family The Stavron’s
Slan - go dTiociah Dia Slan abhalie thu
Simon
worldsurfradio.com
I just had the good chance to read some of my fellow pier rat brothers comments about growing up with Midget at the center of our universe. I really enjoyed reading the thoughts and feelings of characters that were there and lived it because the bottom line is there may be many different memories of what swells were the biggest or what chicks were the hottest or who was the toughest but there has never been debate over who was the king of the pier in the 70’s. It was just amazing! Like Don said he was to us what Lopez was to the boys at Pipe. He was such a classic personality and the thing is he had so much of it. A hyper freak in the water that got more waves than the rest of us put together and us groms except maybe Marty Gecan or Gary Ziegler really got shut down believe me. But you know what was really cool was that just being a grom at the beach Midget surfed and ruled was a very special opportunity. An opportunity to witness the most amazing hi performance surfing being done anywhere up and down the coast but it just happened to be in your backyard. But more than that it was his personality that was so intriguing as he was born with more energy and charisma than you may ever have the good fortune to see otherwise in your walk on this planet. He gave us so much without even knowing the depth of his gift in our lives. I can honestly say from the bottom of my heart that I love this man and that growing up a psycho pier rat under his tutelage is something that I will always cherish and the friends and brothers that shared in that time and place I want to tell all of you right here that pier rats rule! Thankyou very much! Midget Rest In Peace and find a pier in heaven we can all come find you at!!! Cave Dr.
Ah Midget, Rest in peace my friend… What an era for the San Clemente…….Back in the time of the fishing boats at the end of the pier when you first riegned supreme….
We were the kids that got initiated, then adopted in a way…
And then grow up to have such a good friend as you…..
It’s been long years since my days surfing the pier, but Midget always picked up the phone to return a call , was never to busy to talk, and always offered to shape me a board,….
Midget was good to his friends.
I’m so sorry I didn’t see you in Mazatlan last year, but you weren’t feeling good even then..
Midget Smith was a braveheart, beyond his stature, and was a good man.
He will be sorely missed, and I was lucky to know him.
Rest in peace, condolances to your family,
Marty Gecan
Like he did for many others, Midget shaped my boards, tried to make me a better surfer and never gave me more then an 8.5. He was one of the few mentors out there that supported me and many others. Even when I surfed against Chris he didn’t cheat me. He was always a cool guy, laid back and personified how us surfers should treat each other. He made a strong impression on my younger years; and now 16-years later I can’t help but to have the utmost respect for him and just feel like I owe him something. Well, rest in peace Midget and thank you for your friendship and support.
i paddled out the day he passed and surfed some lousy waves and i could only picture him out there with me smiling and having fun.what a cool human being…and one of the best laughs ever! midget was always really generous with his time and his knowledge. i am just really sad to not be able to drive down south and walk into bashams and try to think of something witty to sneak up on him with. it was always a pleasure to see him and the drummys too, of course, who have been like a second family to me (and so many others) since i was 12 or so. love you guys.
Godspeed Midget,
I was so fortunate to have surfed with, worked with, and shared a friendship with Midget Smith.
I have the perspective and the reference of other Judges like Perry Hatchett, Jack Shipley, Jeff Klugel and Pete Dooley to say that Midget absolutely influenced the way that competitive surfing is judged, and always for the better.
This past weekend, when he left us, they were running the Duke Kahanomoku Ocean Fest in Waikiki, the SIMA USA Championships in Huntington Beach and the East Coast Surfing Championships in Virginia Beach, simultaneously. At each of these events, on three different coasts, competition was interupted in order to honor a moment of silence in the memory of Midget Smith. That is sweeping testimony to how clearly he touched the lives of the people who have been entrusted to administrate the sport that he loved. He will not be forgotten.
Mike Martin
(former ASP Head Judge)
Midget has been my shaper and a friend for 20 years. He helped me develop my style (such as it is), he always put up with my weird ideas about trying something different in the shape of my boards. When they didn’t work, he would just smile and never said “I told you so”. And he always remembered to put a diamond tail on all my boards. The last board he shaped for me was a scaled model of my most recent long board for my Grandson. Heaven will always be 6ft & glass for this great man. Thanks
I only knew this genttleman by the reference of others, and the words they used to describe him where always the same; a humble man;a fighter;a great shaper;a great family man;a great surfer;great sense of humor;a great friend: I figure he is still all these things, maybe in 2 places at the same time, here and there, from what I hear he will have many friends in both places here on earth and there in heaven. His friends and family will miss him greatly, but no worries for God will bless him.
I wrote on Surfline that Midget brought so many of us together. That each of his relationships have been interwoven into a massive web of friendships that can be traced back directly to him. Personally, I met the Conlan family (Mike, Tamara, Matt, Jesse, and Josh) through surfing, who brought Midget and Chris Drummy to what we no refer to as “the 805″. Ventura, then Oxnard, Carpinteria, and Santa Barbara. etc. We grew. Midget brought us a new area code and the West Coast soon followed. It happened simply and overnight. By treating all of us like we wanted to be treated, as if we were just as important as he was when talking to us. The math after Santa Cruz and Hawaii went globally exponential. THANK YOU MIDGET! For so many great times and friends with so many more to come…
Midget Smith was a great inspiration in my life. I first met Midget at Endless Summer Surf Camp. I loved to talk with him about traveling, surfboards, and everything. He was an amazing person who inspired me to travel to places in the world that I would never have gone otherwise. My prayers go out to Midget’s family and Mary lou.
I’ll always remember midget for his smile and laugh. And for always being availible to offer advice in the ussf and later wqs contests. You will be missed dearly, but your spirit lives on…
Shaun burrell
I remember the first time I met Midget, with Kurt and Tim in Biarritz on 2002. I was 17 years old and handicaped by a sad but usual life accident that deeply broke my knee. Watching the others surfing (I was spotter for midget judging staff actually), I was loosing the hope of being able to surf again one day. With his always smiling mind, his love for life and full of this hope I wondered, he helps me to regain the self-confidence I needed to fight. I’m walking and surfing now…
I always want to remind you as this incredible man I met, that teach me so much about surf and life, engaged and aware to the world’s movements, that encouraged me to be the first green president of France ! I promise you that I’ll change the world as much as I can, I’ll never stop believing in this utopia, the values you always fighted for : respect for human beings and the planet, tolerance, peace, solidarity, traveling to open minds to the rest of the world, the other cultures. You inspired us as a leader, be sure that we’ll follow your way.
I remember Midget told me that when I’ll be a good surfer enough he’ll be happy shape my first board. Every time I go surfing I think about you Midget. You were the most charismatic and generous surfer I ever met, a model for the new generation,a beautiful mind.
I would like to send to his family my deepest sympathies on their sad loss. I’m 10 000 km far from California but I’m sure that like me, all around the world many people will miss Midget as I do.
Kindest regards,
Claire
France
What a loss for the whole surfing community. Midget Smith, a true Waterman, who saw the sport of surfing grow over the years, and contributed to what it is now. From the first days that I met Midget, back on the old Bud Surf Tour days in the late “80″s, as a young announcer when he was the supreme head judge, to shaping killer boards for my shop, to even competing against him in surf contests, Midget was the Man, living the life he loved best, all involved around surfing. I am stoked to say, thanks for all the help on the way, you definately made an impact in my life and one day we’ll meet up again to surf perfect waves, save me a few righty’s.
Mary Lou and Family my heart and prayers go out to ya Fig
Midget, my family and I will miss you so much! You helped me so much growing up! The world of surfing will remember you forever….
Love, the Etch family/odog
“Vaya Con Dios” Midget, Peace and Love to you Mary Lou, family & Zubadee
I never got a chance to meet Midget, but I do have a story. I started surfing a bit later in life than most kids I grew up with (consequences of being the son of a tennis player and a corporate executive who’s concept of water sports was limited to slip and slides or poolside lounge chairs), but when I was a freshman in high school I hooked up with who is now my best friend Jeremy and he took me to SanO for my first ride on a surf board. Long story short I ended up on the surf team with awesome guys like Pat Drummy, Shawn Parkin, Jeremy McCassy, and many others, who showed me what surfing Creek REALLY should look like. I was lucky enough to be accepted to college in Hawaii, which was the only place I applied to since I cared less about the quality of education and more about the perfect waves of the North Shore being in close proximity to my dorm room. But I was low on cash and parental support, so putting together a quiver was difficult, and my California squash wasn’t going to cut it for sure. I asked Pat Drummy for some advice, and he said I should ride Midget’s boards for sure, and seeing how much Pat ripped I trusted his advice and bought my first big wave gun, a 6′8″ with Midget’s decal right on the stringer. I paddled that board out in big (for me) Sunset, Pipe, OTW, Lani’s, and several other spots on the east side where I lived, and no doubt surfed the best waves of my life that winter, best in the sense that never before in my life had I gotten so much stoke out of surfing. to this day I still keep the board in my room, with a piece of coral lodged in the bottom from Hawaii that was the catalyst for it’s retirement from my quiver.
Bottom line, Midget’s passion in life, shaping boards and being a surfer, made MY dreams come true.
Midget, thanks for all the memories, sorry we never got to meet during this plane of existence, but good luck to you in the next.
I was fortunate to have been able to surf, shape, and judge with Midget. We shared the same passions. His strength was so formidable that to have known him was an inspiration and an example of how a great man faces extreme adversity. Thanks Midget for showing the way
As great a shaper as Midget was he was even a better person. The joy he brought to his daughter and the Drummy clan was special. He will be truly missed by many, many people.
1000 Mahalos Midget, and my love to Mama Lou and the kids.
Everytime Midget would take off in front of me, he would turn around, smile and say “Thank you”. I’m going to miss that. Well it’s my turn to say “Thank you” for all the good times, for all the great boards, and mostly for being a person who let me call him my friend.
Hang on tight Jeffery Jay for the time of your life, the spiritual life, it’s going to be the best wave you’ve ever ridden. See you on the other side.
Bobby Small called me Tuesday afternoon with the news of Midgets passing. To me, he was a great friend,a brother. He always seemed to have a smile on his face and always ready to laugh. Knowing Midget for 40 years but having spent most of my time with him in the 60’s to early 80’s many of my memories are of a young Midget, before he was sick and I would like to share a few.
We shared many surf sessions at the pier, he would be giving me a bad time cause I was “half man” or” knee bitch”. I remember Midget surfing the pier in the middle of winter without a wetsuit, he let me ride one of the first fishes he made and then yelling at me cause I wouldn’t wear the lease and the board almost hit the pier, I remember driving all night with Midget and Mike Laron from San Clemente to Santa Cruz for my first WSA Invatational , the Natural Design Surf Team., driving from San Clemente to South Padre Island , with Joey Buran, The Ziegleries, and Hugh Linebrook and Marty Blanda for the U.S. Surfing championship. Being there for four days and then hearing of a large south swell, driving home in 32 hours and then having it blow out an hour after we arrived. Seeing the Midget Smith logo for the first time, simple but elegant. Watching him shape a blank into a work of art, at various garages in San Clemente. When he made boards in my garage at the big house in Buena Vista, always knowing when he was glassing, making the whole house smell.
The last time I talked with Midget was this past winter, when he told me the cancer had return. Knowing that he enjoyed snow boarding, I shared with him that I was building a house in Tahoe and that while we were talking I was looking at the mountains surrounding Tahoe.
To me Midget was humble caring man who treated people with respect and dignity. When I last spoke with Midget we said we would get together in mid-September, but it wasn’t ment to be, I’ll miss you and love you, you will always be in my heart and soul.
May God bless you and keep you, for your suffering is over, rest in peace.
I wouldn’t be where im at in the sport of surfing if it wasn’t for Midget. I have learned and am still learning how to become a better judge but no one will replace my mentor. He took the time long ago to help me become one of the best judges in the US and for that im am forever grateful. We didn’t always agree on some of the scores but I will tell you he was right more often than not. I truly felt his passion for competitive surfing which in turn rubbed of on me no judge does the job for the money thats why Midget would work a full day at an event and then drive home sometimes 3 hours to shape boards for you lucky people. Midget you are dearly missed thanks for everything. Much love to the Drummy Family…. Robby
the wings of your surfing never lost a feather, who am i going to drop in on now? wish the whole human race had your soul and enlightment but so many of us are better people because of you love you friend
Lots of love to you Mary Lou and family. It is heartbreaking to lose one of the greats through suffering -now Midget is sailing along that perfect glass and in good company. I have been lucky enough to come up surfing under the influence of great men and women like you that bring so much integrity to this sport of kings. Midgets true legacy can be witnessed among the smiles and love among the many lucky enough and proud to have known him.
Last Saturday, I was going to drop off this letter to Midget. Unfortunately, I missed my opportunity to share this with him. Midget, hired me on as a “Body Glove Pro Tour’” Judge (1985 to 1995) and mentored and cared for me like I was his Son.
Midget, I first met you 28 years ago, when I came into your San Clemente Surf Shop and bought my first surfboard (I still have it). Then again in 1985, when you as Head Judge let me on the panel for the 2nd event of the new Pro Tour. For over ten years, we took many risky travels to surf anything and everything. We Judged in the Snow, Endless downpours, Hurricanes, Heavy fog, Afternoon glare, Heavy winds, Lightning storms, Space Shuttle launches, 50+ Bull Sharks charging fish up on the beach, in a once in a lifetime, feeding frenzy, Mosquito and Bee swarms, we even survived when the wind toppled the Bud Tour Scaffolding at Makaha and sent us face first in the sand, followed by all the Ice Chests and Equipment. I’ll never forget the look on your face, followed by your command to grab the heat sheets to finish the heat in the water. Captain Smith at the helm.. GOOD TIMES!
In my opinion, you are the most successful Head Judge in ASP history. You are always Professional and calm under pressure.
Your commitment to pushing “progressive surfing” from three 5’s to the two 8’s, and 3 waves to 2 waves counted. You also never used your position for personal gain.
Competitive Surfers Worldwide, can thank you, for your attention to the details on every wave scored, your incredible memory of each wave ridden, never missing a heat, many times you would go all day without a break. Big bladder, I guess?
Kelly even gives (Midget) the “Bud Tour” credit in his book, for rewarding progressive surfing, thus giving him the tools and confidence needed to take out the old dogs on the WCT.
God have you in glory. I was waiting for you in Salina Cruz, but you are welcome whenever you want to come, becouse your spirit will never die. My condolences for you Chris Drummy and all your family.
Peace and strength my friend.
Midget you will be sorely missed! As a San Clemente native myself, It was around 1976 when I first met Midget, a spry surfer with a laid back style, that was always available to share a good laugh. As a young boy I would often visit his shop on N. El Camino Real and El Portal (now a small Laundromat) to talk about life and all things surfing. He encouraged all the young skateboarders to come by his shop anytime where he always had a smile on his face and a good word for his friends and neighbors. My brother Mike and I had our first boards shaped by Midget and we were proud to show them off to all we knew. (What I wouldn’t give to have that board now…) My fondest memory is seeing my friend Jimmy Hogan riding one of Midget’s boards in the water about that same time and I felt that since we shared the same board, that I must be a part of the ‘surfing elite’ (or so I thought).
Thanks Midget for bringing a smile to my face, providing me with a board to perform a mean cut-back, and the encouraging words to reach for the goals that were important to me as a young man. May God Bless Your Family and help them to find comfort in the fact that you gave so much of yourself to so many people, only asking for their friendship and love In return. You were loved by many people both locally and abroad. Rest peacefully Midget.
-Daniel-
Midget,
Since we first met in the 80’s there have been so many boards and so many memories. Most of the boards have been broken and are long gone but, the memories of you are something we will all be able to cherish forever. May god bless you and your family.
Rip Midget.
Jason and Becky Tran
Midget you are the coolest guy I’ve ever met. Your integrity as a man a shaper was A+++++. I’ve always said to anyone that Midget is the only shaper,in the world, that shapes a board when he says he is going to do it, that in itself if hudge for the flakey surf board building industry. I loved his scaristic sense of humor, he never failed to give a good jab, if you know me that is pretty easy, but it was sooooo fun for me to hear it. I’ve had some really weird surfboard ideas most of my life and Midget was the only shaper that would tackle them and I really respect him for helping me make them real. About six years ago I asked him to make me this thick styrofaom board and the blank was of a high density and very thick, when he went to cut it out with a hand saw he was sweating like a banchee and it tookk him forever, but he didn’t complane at all even though I know he was pissed. I got to visite Midget and Mary Lou a few times in the last months most of the time he was in good spirites even though he was in pain. He kept his sense of humor right to the last. Two weeks ago I saw him at his house and I told him about a dream I had about him and a buddy comming over to my house to say hi, Midget comment was, “wow that sounds like a nightmare”. I laughted. I’ll miss you and I will always try to laugh because I know would like that. I will quit rambling. Midget you are one tough guy! I love You Jay
Our entire family had a blast at the surf contest you judged, your humor made serious competition fun and worthwile! thank You for all of great surfboards you made for our family and your friendship!
I left Honolulu in 1984 to find work in California ending up in Ventura County with an opportunity to start a small surf shop. I called an old friend of mine, James Zoobadee Lau and asked his advice on getting boards. Zoob said “call my friend Midget” That’s how I met Midget. This was somewhere in the late 80’s . I found out that he was fighting cancer, yet he wa