Michael S. Smith

Cottage Grove - Michael Stewart Smith, age 67, entered into eternal life with Jesus on Sunday, May 15, 2016, in the arms of his wife, after a two-year courageous battle with cancer. Mike was born on Nov. 1, 1948, in Madison, Wis., the youngest son of Ferrel and Marcella Smith. He attended University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point where he met his future wife, Kari, and they were married in Madison, Wis. on Oct. 11, 1975. Mike was involved in Scouting from a young age and received many awards, including the Eagle Scout Award, and the Silver Beaver Award. He was a Wood Badge Course Director and held the Office of District Commissioner. He was a Century Member, won the National Quality District Award as Yahara District Commissioner, and earned the Doctor of Commissioner Science degree. He was a former West Towne/Middleton President of the National Exchange Club, and received the Cottage Grove Lions Club Citizenship Award in 2015. Mike was employed as an audio consultant at Pridham Electronics, Madison. He was also employed part time as a Senior Security Officer at the Overture Center for the Arts and was presented with the Outstanding Service Award as a Senior Security Officer in May 2016. He loved these jobs and his coworkers were also his friends. Mike contributed his very best, was always positive, and performed his duties with pride. Mike was a kind and gentle man who loved animals and adopted many beloved shelter cats over the years. These cats brought much joy to his life and Minnie will miss Mike who loved and spoiled her. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and spending good times with his buddies in Hayward. He also enjoyed spending time with family and his many friends, and especially enjoyed playing Santa Claus at family Christmas gatherings. Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Kari, of 40 years; brother, James (Sharon) of Hudson, Wis.; nephews, Jeff (Donna), Marc (Connie), and Kevin (Kristin), and their children; niece, Tara; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Paul and Audrey Rauhut, Nancy and Don Van Heel, and Marjorie Morton; nephews, David and Tony Morton and Aaron (Kim) Van Heel; special grandnieces, Shelbi Morton, Emma and Lily Van Heel; and godchild, Michael Fiez. He is also survived by several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John; and brother-in-law, John Rodd. A family prayer service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, on Monday, May 23, 2016, with the Rev. Susan Shands presiding. A public visitation, from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., will follow the service. The family thanks Dr. Lisa LePeak and the wonderful nurses at Dean Clinic Oncology Center, Agrace HospiceCare and Dr. Karen Berger for their compassion and loving care. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420