MICHAEL M. SMITH

SMITH--Michael M. Died November 21st from complications due to prostate cancer at his home, the historic Lent-Riker-Smith Homestead, with his wife, Marion, by his side. Born July 22, 1935 in Paris, France of Russian decent (nee Matveyev) Mr. Smith was educated in the United States and an Alumnus of the Millbrook School. Founder of Larimi Communications, publisher of Contacts Newsletter, Radio Contacts, Cable Contacts and T.V. News founded in 1970. Larimi was later sold to Billboard Publications. Mr. Smith also founded the National Media Conference featuring such motivational speakers as Oprah Winfrey, Barbara Walters, Ralph Nader and countless others. Along with his beloved wife of 27 years, photographer Marion Duckworth Smith, they lovingly restored the 1654 farmhouse which is on the National Register of Historic Places. (See New York Times October 11, 2006). The Homestead was open for tours thru local historical societies and for local school children. He is also survived by a daughter, Laurel K. Vouvray of Austin, TX and a step-daughter, Leslie Granger of San Jose, CA. A wake will be held at Quinn Funeral Home, 35-20 Broadway, Astoria, NY, 718-721-9200, Monday evening, November 29th, 6-9pm. Burial will be private and take place in the Riker Cemetery on the grounds of the historic farmhouse. He always wore a smile and was the consummate gentlemen to the very end.