Michael Lee Smith

Michael Lee Smith passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 74.

Mike was born on July 7, 1952, in Bemidji, MN to Russell and Donna Smith. He grew up in Benedict, Minnesota, and graduated from Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School in 1970.

He later made his home in the Ham Lake area, where he married Connie Smith. Together, they raised three children: Cari, Chad, and Brad Smith. Mike worked as a salesman for many years, a career he truly enjoyed and took great pride in. Eventually, he made his way back north, as the North Country always called him home, returning in 2002. 

Mike was known for his love of the outdoors and the simple things in life. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports-including coaching his sons’ teams, and playing music. Those who knew him will remember his big laughs, his jokes, and his unforgettable one-liners. Whether he was out on the lake, in the woods, at the ballfield, or sharing the love of music with his family and friends, Mike found joy in the moments spent with the people he loved most.

Mike is survived by his mother, Donna Smith; his brother, Tim (Shirley) Smith; his sister, Linda Thompson; his sister-in-law, Laurie Smith; his three children, Cari, Chad, and Brad (Katy) Smith; his six grandchildren, DaShaun, Tiana, Brayden, Avery, Cooper, and Chloe Smith; his four great-grandchildren, Kassius, Kaizer, Kayden, and Brooklyn Smith.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Russell Smith; his brother, Gary Smith; his sister, Barb Johnson; and his brother-in-law, Mike Thompson.

Michael Lee Smith will be deeply missed and always remembered.

A service honoring Michael’s memory and celebrating his life will be held at Saint Agnes Catholic Church in Walker, MN on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior to the service from 10-11 AM. Active Pallbearers will be Cody Smith, Brian Carpenter, Danny Carpenter, Brayden Smith and DaShaun Smith. Honorary Pallbearers will be Cooper Smith and Greg Johnson. A luncheon will be held immediately following the service. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Walker, MN. 

Arrangements provided by Whispering Pines Funeral & Cremation Service, serving Northern Minnesota.

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