Michael Don Smith

Michael Don Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away on August 3, 2025. He was born on February 20, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Don Hyrum and
Naomi Stevens Smith, and grew up there with his seven siblings.

At the age of eight, Michael was baptized in the Salt Lake Tabernacle as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—a faith he carried and lived with love throughout
his life. From 1971 to 1973, he served a mission in southern Italy, which began a lifelong love of the Italian people and culture.

Michael had a deep appreciation for music, learning to play a wide variety of instruments and even crafting some of his own. It was through singing in the University of Utah Institute Choir
that he met the love of his life, Lari Taylor. They were married in 1975 and over their 50 years of marriage were blessed with eight children, who along with his 20 grandchildren, were the light and joy of his life.

He attended the University of Utah before moving to Davenport, Iowa, where he earned his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Palmer College. In 1981, the family moved to Arizona, and in
1983, he established Smith Chiropractic. For over 40 years, Michael faithfully served his community and helped his patients find healing and relief.

Michael loved books, classical music, poetry, old movies (and a few new ones), family trips to Rocky Point, ham radio, and time spent with his children, wife, and siblings. Michael could often be found creating a handmade gift, sharpening his wood-working skills, or in his self-made blacksmith shop. Holidays and family reunions were among his greatest joys. He had a gift for learning and an ability to fix anything.

Michael’s legacy of love, faith, learning and service will live on through all who knew him. Michael is survived by his wife, Lari; six of their children: EmmaLee Hammond (Ray), Steven
Smith (Adina), Amy Shumway (Sam), Bethany Smith, Kambria Smith, and Natalli Ellsworth (Jacob); and his 20 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his two sons, Timothy Smith and
Richard Smith (Erica).

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 14th at 234 North Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234. The viewing will be that morning from 8-9:45am with the memorial service at 10am.
Michael will be laid to rest in American Fork, Utah.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a family fund: Venmo @larilue