Michael Wayne Smith

The Lord called Michael Wayne Smith, 79, home on Sunday January 28, 2024. He passed in his home surrounded by his wife, family and friends. Born to Clifford Wayne and Frances Lorna (Brooks) Smith on June 20, 1944 in Wellington, New Zealand, he came to America by ship at the age of 2 with his mother. His father, Clifford was a decorated Marine and also moved frequently. He lived in Yucca Valley, CA, Lakewood, CO, and Omaha, NE during service times. He found his first job at as a short order cook at Davie's Chuckwagon at the age of 16 in Colorado. With parental permission, he enlisted in the Marine Corp Reserves at 17 years old in 1961 and was prescribed by the Commandant of the Marine Corps for Automotive Mechanic, March 1965. He married briefly and had Michael Wayne Smith Jr on July 4, 1962 while still in the military. He moved to Omaha and enjoyed racing cars and working for G&G manufacturing. He then met Bessie Edna Reed and married in 1966 and had 3 children, Connie Leighann (Cool), Michael Bradley Smith, and Angelia Edith Smith-Anderson. In June 1969, he was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps. In 1974, they moved to Loup City where they resided until their divorce. During that time, Michael received his GED and obtained his associates in Business and Management through Central Community College. He then went to work for New Holland, now Case New Holland until he retired in 2006. In 1999, he moved to Grand Island and became even more involved in the Episcopal church and met his beloved wife Donna Weaver. They married on May 1, 2002 and resided together until his death. In retirement, he found a love for bird watching, animal feeding, and wood working. He always enjoyed the challenge of investing and finding the best stocks for the lowest price and highest return. He cultivated his love for gardening and loved his flowers and veggies. He would always research to find ways to improve it each year or try new vegetables. He treasured fishing and playing chess with his grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his sisters Waynette and Kathleen, his mother Frances Lorna, his father Clifford Wayne, his son Michael Wayne Jr, brother-in-law Glen Davis, grandsons Austin Michael and Korey, and sons-in-law Mark Weaver and Mike Josjor. Those who are remaining to celebrate his life are his wife Donna Weaver-Smith, daughters Angelia (Bryce), Connie (Joe) Cool, son Michael Bradley, step children Jason (Mindy) Weaver, Steve (Mary) Weaver, Sharee Josjor, Felicia Weaver. Sisters, Patricia Davis, Mary (Jeff) Laidley, a brother Kerry (Kris) Smith, Great Aunt Phyllis Jensen, Grandchildren, Lillie Mae, Zachariah Michael, Michael Jacob, Brianna, Katiana, Lorna, Shayla, Bailey, Kalab, Autumn, Aidan, Austin, Dustin, Brandon, Hayden, Dustin, Brian, Katie, Alex, Grant, Madison, Jake, several nieces, nephews, and great grandchildren. Services to be held at St. Stephen's Church, Wednesday February 7th, at 10:30am followed by a Luncheon. Reverend Susanna DesMarais will officiate. Military honors will be rendered by the U.S. Marine Corps and United Veterans Honor Guard. His family asks that memorials be sent to St. Stephen's Episcopal Church. All Faiths Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.

Michael Wayne Smith

June 20, 1944 - January 28, 2024

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Michael Wayne Smith

June 20, 1944 - January 28, 2024

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

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