Michael R. SMITH

1958 - 2018

SMITH, Michael R.

October 3, 1958 -
January 24, 2018

Michael R. Smith, a long-time resident of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 24, in Scottsdale AZ, his son Reilly by his side.
Mike was born on October 3, 1958, to Bob and Ginny Smith. He graduated from Ferris High School, Class of 1977. He then attended Eastern Washington University taking classes in math, physics and geology before setting off to seek his fortune in the minerals exploration and mining industry. He worked for Spokane based Diamond Drill Contracting Company. His drilling career took him to remote projects in Alaska and deep underground in the Silver Valley from 1977-1990. When he returned to Spokane, he worked for Consolidated Electronics as a sales manager from 1992 to 1996. In 1996, he signed on with RAYCAP, a global supplier of surge-protector electronics. He had a successful career with RAYCAP for 18 years, retiring from his position as Senior Inside Sales Manager in 2014.
Mike excelled at the things he loved. He was an excellent golfer with a sweet left-handed swing. He was a majestic skier on the slopes in winter and behind a boat in the summer. He loved to fish and looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Priest Lake with his buddies. The dads took their sons the first year which launched an annual tradition. Mike had a sweet spot for boats. He loved taking his friends boating on Lake Coeur d'Alene in his classic 1976 American. But most of all Mike loved hanging out at the family float house in Beauty Bay, boating, fishing, reading or just soaking in the peace.
Mike lived his life courageously and on his own terms. He faced life's challenges with a calm demeanor and two words, "I'm fine." He was a loving father, beloved brother and uncle and a loyal friend. Mike made a huge difference in the lives of many, and he will be missed by the people who loved him. Mike was a gentle soul with a kind heart.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents Robert "Bob" and Virginia "Ginny" Smith and his niece, Gloria Discerni. He is survived by his son Reilly Smith; his siblings: Linda Discerni, Patrick Smith (Janet), and Randall Smith (Lisa); his nieces and nephews: Corina Rader (Nathan), Ryan Smith (Cassie), Anthony Discerni (Brianne), Sean Smith (Vanessa), and Erica Smith; his great-nieces and nephews: Annika, Gabriella, and Lulea Rader, Carter and Isaac Smith, and Rosie Discerni; his uncles: Lawrence (Bud) Boisen and Donald Boisen.
Join us to celebrate Mike's life Saturday, February 10, from 3-5 at the Studio K Bar on Regal. The family suggests donations to a charity of your choice in memory of Mike.