David Edward Smail, age 51 of Park Ridge, passed away on November 8, 2012. He is the youngest son of Harry Edward Smail and Wanda (Nelson) Smail, longtime residents of Park Ridge. They preceded him in death. Born on September 4, 1961, David grew up attending District 64 schools and was a 1980 graduate of Maine South High School. He earned a Criminal Justice degree from Truman State University, a Master's degree in Education and Special Education from Northern Illinois University and his Type 75 School Administration certification. A lifelong advocate for children, adolescents and families, David began his professional career at Maryville Academy and then at The Park Ridge Youth Campus, where he met his wife, Laura. He worked for the Department of Youth Services in Highland Park at "The Firehouse" and was past Director and a staff member at the Park Ridge Teen Center. Dave worked at Maine West High School as a special education teacher, then as a Dean of Students and most recently was Director of Student Personnel Services. He influenced and touched the lives of so many students, families and District 207 staff and will be deeply missed. David had many gifts: a loving, supportive and engaged father to his three beloved children; a philanthropic participant for many bicycle rides supporting Habitat for Humanity and AIDS research; a member of Washington Playmakers which brought him so much joy and new found friendship. Humor, laughter, and inclusivity were important to him and his entire family. Dave was a Friend of Bill and an active member of the First United Methodist Church. David is survived by his wife Laura Coggin Smail, his children Christopher, Ethan and Katherine; siblings Janet Evans, Harry (Teresa) Smail, Juliann (Richard) Moravec, nieces and nephews Erin, Bowen and Ian (Marissa) Evans, Emily and Carl Moravec, Taylor and Kyra Gray; great nephews Hudson and Lawson Evans. Visitation with the family will be held at First United Methodist Church, 418 W. Touhy Avenue, Park Ridge, on Thursday, November 15th from 5pm- 8pm. A memorial service will be held at the church on Saturday, November 17th at 10am. There will be a reception at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, a fund in Dave's memory has been set up at FUMC of Park Ridge. For more information, please contact the church at 847-825-3144.