loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. Born on April 22,
1969, in Brighton, Colorado, raised by Linda and Roger Smith. David was an athlete
and breakdancer with an ear for music. The athleticism and humble swagger he
cultivated in his youth stayed with David his entire life. He was a man with a strong faith
in God, he attended Generations Church in Greeley.
David was a dedicated husband. He met his wife Michaela at Valley High School. The
two stayed together ever since Michaela found out David liked her during their
sophomore year. Giggling awkwardly in health class, The Jets’ “Crush on You'' playing
from the neighboring weight room made the perfect opening track to their blossoming
romance. The high school sweethearts were married 29 years full of laughter and
tenderness. They never over complicated their love for each other, attributing to their
marriage’s success.
David’s greatest joy in life was his three daughters Chelsea, Samantha, and Madison.
An engaged family man, he embraced his girls’ uniqueness and nurtured their
individuality with patience and boundless love. His heart grew after the birth of his
granddaughter Willow, who called him Pops. As he did with his children, David could
often be seen tossing Willow in the air or doing her hair with more skill and style than
most moms.
David was passionate about his family, as well as his interests in running and cycling.
He often pushed himself to the physical and mental limits and ran many marathons,
including the Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World, a 5k, 10k, half-marathon, and
marathon over four days and he was the life of the party on and off the dance floor.
David worked as a claims adjuster with Pilot, where he was admired and respected by
his colleagues. But coaching club volleyball was the most rewarding job to him. He
loved helping people grow and gain new insights. He was always eager to learn, pick up
a new skill or hobby. He was never complacent.
While often quiet on the outside, David’s love for his family and friends was loud.
Becoming a better man and bettering himself was a lifelong pursuit of his. He had an
open heart and mind with a gentle and welcoming spirit. He was his family's safe space.
David left us too soon, but his time on earth was filled with a lifetime's worth of beauty
and joy.
David is remembered by his wife Michaela Smith; daughters Chelsea Smith, Samantha
Smith, Madison (Mason) Richardson; granddaughter Willow Smith; parents Linda and
Roger Smith; mother-in-law Patti O’Brien; grandparents John and Millie Montoya;
siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
He is preceded in death by his father-in-law Bill O’Brien; cousin Nathan Montoya;
sister-in-law Becky O’Brien; grandma Lila Crooks; uncle Frank Montoya.
Visitation will be held at Allnutt Funeral & Cremation - Macy on Wednesday, December
29, 2021, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, December
30, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at Generations Church, 3600 W. 22nd Street, Greeley. Luncheon to follow.
