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Norine Smith, a champion of progressive causes and two-time former candidate for City Council, died Sunday after a long bout with cancer. She was 67. 

Smith served as a member of the Berkeley Waterfront Commission and last November failed in her second bid to unseat Councilmember Betty Olds in District 6. 

“It’s a loss to the city,” Olds said. “As a person I liked and respected her.” 

Smith, a retired computer consultant, had advocated for environmental and social justice in Berkeley for over 20 years. As Waterfront Commissioner, she opposed the removal of 100 trees near the Berkeley Marina to make way for the Bay Trail.  

Smith also fought to preserve city buildings and advocated for women’s rights. She was a frequent protester outside the Oakland Federal Court building during the sentencing of members of the Reddy family, accused of smuggling Indian women into the country. 

“Norine was a fabulous activist and a caring person,” said her friend Councilmember Dona Spring. 

Smith died of septicemia, a blood infection caused by complications from breast cancer that had spread to her liver. A memorial will take place this Saturday, July 2 at the Berkeley Rose Garden on the corner of Eunice and Euclid.