Dr. Michael K. Smith's Obituary
Dr. Michael K. Smith, age 73, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness, on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, in Muskegon, MI. Born March 5, 1951, in Muskegon, to Kenneth and Ellen (‘nee Johnson) Smith. Beloved husband to Marijean (Schuitema) for 52 cherished years. Marijean survives him along with 2 sons, M. Korie (Julie) Smith of Traverse City, MI and Ryan J. (Alicia) Smith of Nashville, TN. Michael was a proud grandfather to Lily, Kealan, Kayla, Jayden and Reese. He is survived by 3 sisters, Kaye Rasor, Kathy Halfpap, and Janet (Delbert) Williamson; in-laws, John and Carol Schuitema, Joycene Postmus, and Dale and Norma Schuitema; and by many nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Carol Smith.
In 1979, following graduation from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, he became a Board-Certified Surgeon and Critical Care Specialist for 34 years. Michael was a Partner of Northeast Surgical Group, working at McLaren Health Care, subsequently serving as CMO at two different health care systems. Following his retirement, he served as Medical Director of Utilization Review at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital. Michael dedicated his life to those who needed help–to healing and caring for others. He enjoyed working with his hands – wood-working, welding, and helping any neighbor in need. Yes, we’re all mortal. Yes, we’ll all return to dust. But a legacy, HIS legacy, will live on.
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE, honoring Michael’s life, will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, December 14, 2024 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services (6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, M I 49444). A VISITATION with Michael’s family will be from 5-7 PM, Friday, December 13, 2024, also at The Lee Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations to Usher Syndrome Society (https://www.ushersyndromesociety.org/donate/) or the West Michigan Symphony (https://westmichigansymphony.org/donate/support-the-wms/) are appreciated. To share a memory with the family, please visit www.sytsemafh.com.
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