Western Slope Mourns Loss of Craig Native Mike Smith

Make no mistake, Michael Alan Smith's passing leaves a gaping hole in the Western Slope community. The 71-year-old Denver resident, born and raised in Craig, lived a life that defied categorization — a true original. His obituary reads like a laundry list of accomplishments: Eagle Scout, Harvard Law grad, distinguished lawyer, and devoted mentor. But it's the spaces between these lines that reveal the true measure of the man.

Smith's life was a testament to his passion for people and places. He split his time between his two hometowns, Craig and Denver, and his love for both is evident in the countless lives he touched. As a member of the First Baptist Church, he spent over a decade with perfect attendance — a feat that speaks to his dedication and commitment. His family, including his mother Olive Jean Smith and siblings Kristina and Greg, will undoubtedly feel his absence deeply.

The short version: Mike Smith was a force to be reckoned with. His legal career spanned over 40 years, with stints at top firms and a slew of impressive titles. He shaped Colorado's landscape, working on projects that included ski areas, sporting venues, and amusement parks. But it's his work behind the scenes that's truly remarkable, the mentorship, the leadership, the countless hours spent guiding and advising others.

Read that again: Mike Smith was a man who wore many hats, and wore them all with style and humor. Friends describe him as brilliant, quirky, and generous; a true original. His love of art, music, and dance is evident in his support of organizations like the Cherry Creek Arts Festival and the American Heart Association. And then there's his famous dance moves, inspired by Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly - a testament to his joy and enthusiasm for life. The community will be shaped by his generosity of spirit for years to come. As one friend noted, Mike Smith was a man who left an indelible mark on those around him, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire others.

Worth watching: the outpouring of support from the community. Smith's memorial service, set for April 25 in Craig, will undoubtedly draw a crowd of friends, family, and acquaintances. The fact that he's being remembered in his hometown, surrounded by the people and places he loved, is a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to so many. This will cost the community more than just a talented lawyer and devoted mentor, it will cost them a piece of their heart. Mike Smith's passing serves as a reminder that the people we meet, the lives we touch, and the memories we create are what truly matter. Mike Smith will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on.

A Lasting Impact

In the days and weeks to come, the community will undoubtedly come together to share stories, memories, and anecdotes about Mike Smith's life. From his time at Moffat County High School to his years as a lawyer and mentor, his impact will be felt for generations to come. The fact that he's being remembered with love, laughter, and tears is a reflection of the man he was, and the lives he touched. As the community says its final goodbyes, how will Mike Smith's legacy continue to shape the Western Slope? the answer lies in the countless lives he touched, and the memories that will continue to inspire and motivate others. For now, it's enough to say that Mike Smith will be deeply missed, but his impact will be felt for years to come.