Michael J. Smith, age 80, of Kenosha, WI, passed away on March 7, 2024, at Froedtert South Hospital in Pleasant Prairie, WI, with his loving family by his side.
Born in Kenosha, WI to the late Howard and Veronica (Babino) Smith on March 10, 1943.
Mike attended local schools and graduated from Bradford High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 until 1968. He was in Alaska during the Great Alaskan Earthquake where he saved two soldiers from a burning tankard and was awarded the Soldiers Medal. This is equivalent to the Medal of Honor.
Mike owned and operated Vital Signs in Somers, WI as a sign painter for many years.
He was able to attend the Snap-On Honor Flight with Phil Kaye in September 2023. Mike was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. He loved to listen to the 50’s and 60’s music genre and play the drums. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing golf, and telling stories and jokes.
Along with his wife of 29 years, Myra, he is also survived by his son, Dennis (Barbara) Smith of Racine, WI; stepdaughter, Dawn (Phyllip) Kaye of Kenosha, WI; siblings, Richard Smith, Jeffrey (Sue) Smith, Larry (Janet) Smith, Lori (Leonard) Rainey, Kathy “Sissy” (Army) Santos, Patti (Dennis) Hornacak; Eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by daughter, Jill Tobin; great-grandson, Jonny Smith; and sister-in-law, Peggy Smith.
A very special thank you to Patty Schletz from Froedtert Hospital for her loving compassion during Mike’s passing.
A memorial graveside service will be held at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery, 21731 Spring St, Union Grove, WI, on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 11:00 am. Full military honors will commence. Please meet at the main office just before 11:00 am.
