L TO R
Ryan & Dean Leigh-Smith.
Australian marine industry stalwart, Dean Leigh Smith passed away recently.
Along with brother Ryan he operated the very successful Leith-Smith Yachts brokerage based in Sanctuary Cove, Gold Coast. A vibrant and very active participant in the Australian marine industry, Dean followed the ethos of offering a good old fashioned service, coupled to his vast product knowledge. The Leigh-Smith family has been selling boats in Australia for over five decades with brothers Dean & Ryan Leigh-Smith drawing on their earlier generations passion, values & experiences.
The renowned Gold Coast City Marina, was designed, built run and 50% owned by the Leigh-Smith Family until 2014. The GCCM served as a 17yr apprenticeship for Dean & Ryan Leigh-Smith establishing an in depth knowledge of the marine industry.
Another achievement was the Gold Coast Marine Expo, founded by Ryan & Dean Leigh-Smith and run for three years.
Ryan reflects on the passing of his brother
My life and many others changed forever at 6:45pm this Thursday. My mentor, my champion, my guide, my business partner, my beautiful brother gave into a four and half year battle with severe back pain and the horrific side affects that followed.
Dean was the one to guide many through troubled times and was always there for others in need putting his issues to the back ground to focus on the ones that needed him most.
The pain levels and and lack of options to move forward with a quality of life subsided to a level beyond the capability of even the strongest of people on this planet. He’s left a legacy and memories that for whoever enjoyed his company in good times that will last forever.
Dean put the needs of his wife, children, parents and myself above his for which there is no words to describe the brave, decisive and selfless decisions he had to make in his journey.
I ask anyone who knew Dean not to pity this situation but to applaud he’s ultimate bravery and sacrifice for the betterment of his closest family, friends and business.
I love my brother for everything he taught and did for me over a 44 year period. Celebrate Dean, celebrate his achievements, celebrate his larrikin personality that brought so many together over many great years.
Rest easy my Beautiful friend, rest easy my Brother. You will be loved continuously, forever and I will be there for your children and family until I can no more.
