Thomas Michael Smith

Thomas Michael Smith was born on December 21, 1953, in Great Falls, Montana. He passed peacefully at home on March 9, 2026, in Medical Lake, Washington.

Preceded in death by his mother, Beverly P. Wentworth (1994), father Ralph M. Wentworth (1991), and brother Robert V. Wentworth (1956).

Survived by sisters Melody Hodgson (Wayne), Deborah Crawford (Steve), and Lisa Spilker (Leo).

Nieces Melynda Burns, husband Brad, and children Madison, Grace, and Casen. Nephew Matthew Hodgson and significant other Beth White. Nephew Tory Bowlen and significant other Brittani Harris, and children Tyler (Jenna, son Hayden), Hannah, and Haile-Lin. Nephew Nathan Bowlen, and children Alexis, Sonora, Cameillia, Bennett, and Laila. Niece Heather Bowlen and children Kaeleb, Christian, Karter, and Aiden. Neice Miranda LoPorto, husband Matthew, and children Logan, Olivia, and Cruz. Nephew Timothy Spilker, wife Natasha, and children Sophia and Colton. Numerous Aunts, Uncles, and cousins, and a multitude of friends.

Being a child in a military family, he experienced many moves in his young life. Eventually, the family settled in Medical Lake, WA - a place that would become Tom's forever home. He attended the Medical Lake school district from K-12, graduating in 1971. It was here that Tom met many of his lifelong friends.

After graduation, Tom dabbled in sales, then worked at Lakeland Village as an attendant counselor for a time before starting his career in the elevator industry. Tom began his career with Otis Elevators, then worked with Montgomery Elevators and also Kone. Tom finished his working career as the elevator inspector for the City of Spokane. He had a goal of working until he was 70 years old, which he successfully met, retiring in 2024 at the age of 70. He truly enjoyed his time in the elevator industry, taking pride in his work and was well respected among the elevator community. Operating the elevator for President George W. Bush during his visit to Spokane was one of Tom's favorite memories.

Tom had an adventurous spirit and would jump at the chance to travel. He loved getting away, whether it was taking a quick trip to Southern Idaho for a family visit or a relaxing vacation to Mexico or Hawaii. One memorable trip he loved to reminisce about was the time he went to Lake Powell with his friends. Seeking adventure brought Tom to try his hand at parasailing, hot air balloon rides, and flying lessons. Tom also enjoyed snow skiing and water skiing. He loved bicycling, boating, fast cars, and motorcycles. As a member of Slicks Car Club, Tom would attend local car shows where he would proudly display his Corvette.

Tom was a Gonzaga basketball fan. He held season tickets to the women's games and followed the men's team to the Championship tournament in Las Vegas many times. You could always find Tom on the golf course. He was an avid golfer and even shot a hole-in-one at The Fairways. If he wasn't putting around the course, Tom could be found sharing good times and conversations with friends while enjoying a cold one at the local hangout, which he affectionately called "The Twist and Shout." Tom loved life and was very much a people person. He always had a smile on his face and could (and would) have a conversation with anyone and everyone!

As Tom would say: Live Life, Eat Dessert First, and Love Immensely

Services will be held Tuesday, March 17th at 11:00 am at Cheney Funeral Chapel, 1632 1st Street, Cheney, WA 99004. Burial will be at Old Medical Lake Cemetery at 1:00 pm at 21419 W Thorpe Rd, Medical Lake, WA 99022. A gathering will follow at 1:30 pm at Jensen Memorial Youth Ranch Hall at 620 N Stanley Street, Medical Lake, WA 99022.

Donations in honor of Tom may be made to Jensen Memorial Youth Ranch, PO Box 220, Medical Lake, WA 99022. Flowers may be sent to Cheney Funeral Chapel, 1632 1st Street, Cheney, WA 99004.