Michael L Smith

He was born April 18, 1948 in Peoria to Raymond and Patricia (Cunningham) Smith. He married Christi Hangen Dec. 8, 1967 in Morton. Surviving is his wife of 47 years, along with two daughters: Angela Koch-Smith of Blue Springs, MO, Amy (Charles) Ruppman of Dunlap, five beautiful grandchildren: Anyssa, Tristan, Ari, Desi, Avery Michael, two sisters: Cate Closen of Peoria, Patti Lynn (Dave) Williams of Albertsville, AL, and one brother, Rick (Mo) Smith of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Ronnie Smith.

Mike attended Limestone High School and served in the United States Navy for 4 years from 1965-1969. He was a 3rd Class Petty Officer. He served on the U.S.S. Independence. His first tour was in Vietnam waters at the age of 17 during the Vietnam War. He worked for Caterpillar, Inc. for 33 years retiring in 2002. He worked in Mossville for many years as a belt builder at Chem Products.

He attended Pekin First Church of the Nazarene regularly until he was too ill to attend. He gave his heart to Jesus Oct. 21, 2008. He prayed for his grandchildren by name nightly. He had many interests. He was an avid ping pong player and great Indian Chef catering Indian food. He was a family man and all his family loved him dearly.

Funeral services will be Friday Feb. 14, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services.

Burial will be in Smithville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the American Kidney Association.

Please view Mike’s obituary online at www.davison-fultonbartonvillechapel.com