Michael E. Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael E. Smith, who joined the Church Triumphant with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 27, 2026, at the age of 67. Michael, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on July 8, 1958, in Joliet, IL, to Norman and Susanne (Piepenbrink) Smith. He found his soulmate in his high school sweetheart, Cynthia, and they married on August 1, 1981, embarking on a journey filled with love, faith, and family.

Michael dedicated his life to serving others. With a master’s in divinity in hand, he poured his heart into pastoral work, first as an associate pastor in Joliet and Waukegan, IL, before becoming the senior pastor at River Valley Church, where he would lead and inspire for 19 wonderful years. In the years that followed, he shared his wisdom as an ad hoc instructor at Lakeland University and touched the lives of high school students as a Bible teacher at Valley Christian.

An active member of Resurrection Presbyterian Church, Michael’s gentle spirit and love for the Lord resonated with everyone he met—especially his cherished grandchildren, who were the highlight of his life. He was a friendly introvert with a passion for running, proudly completing the Chicago and Philadelphia Marathons. Michael was also an avid reader and a lifelong learner, continuously seeking to grow and share knowledge with those around him.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of nearly 45 years, Cindy, their daughters, Alyssa (Jordan) Belton and Anca Smith, and four grandchildren—Levi, Evelyn, Lillian, and Elsie—who brought him boundless joy. Michael also leaves behind his brothers, Mark (Lois), Matthew (Robyn), and Merritt Smith, as well as sister-in-law Carol (John) Hentschel, along with numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. He now joins those who have passed before him—his mother and step-father, Susanne and William Martinson; father and step-mother, Norman and Katherine Smith; and his sons, infant Austin and Adam Smith.

A funeral service celebrating Michael’s life will be held at Apple Valley Presbyterian Church, 1750 Olde Buggy Dr, Neenah, WI 54956 on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Guests are invited to gather for visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the service begins. Following the ceremony, Michael will find his final resting place at Riverside Cemetery in Oshkosh.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in Michael’s name to Resurrection Presbyterian Church, where his legacy of faith and love will continue to inspire.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Dar at the Lombardi Cancer Center, Dr. Kent Bellville of Belville & Associates Chiropractic Clinic, and the compassionate staff at Eden Meadows for their unwavering care during Michael's journey. He will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.