Michael Joseph Smith passed away on Nov. 5, 2013.
He was born on Sept. 25, 1953. He was raised in Southern California, and graduated from San Marino High School in 1971.
His love of the outdoors was awakened by his membership in both the Boy Scouts and later, the Explorer Scouts. Mike and his friends would spend the weekends camping and rock climbing. Later, Mike became a member of an elite U.S. Forest Service crew, known as the "Hot Shots" of Chantry Flats, a helicopter first response team.
During the winter months, Mike was a member of the Mount Waterman Ski Patrol, located in the San Gabriel mountains.
Mike worked for Pacific Bell, the Southern California phone company, until his retirement.
Mike's greatest love was, of course, fly-fishing. He talked, walked and breathed fly-fishing.
Moving to Wyoming gave him the chance to not only expand his fishing arena, but to also teach the art. Prior to his death, Mike had been involved in guiding trips, teaching casting and being involved with the Wounded Warrior Project, helping the challenged veterans to enjoy the outdoors. He was also a member of Trout Unlimited.
Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Dolores. He leaves behind his father David, stepmother Jean, brothers Anthony, Chris and Tim, and his sisters Monica, Theresa and Mary Kay. There are also many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends that will miss him.
We will miss you, and never forget you. There will be a celebration of his life in the spring, by one of his favorite fishing streams.
If you would like to attend, please contact Anthony Smith at:
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