William ‘MIKE’ Smith aged 57 passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 29, 2011.  Mike made his home in Columbia, South Carolina for the past 9 years and it was the happiest time of his life.  Mike worked for DiPrato’s Deli and the Publick House in Columbia and they quickly became his family, it was a comfort to know that he was surrounded by great friends and was never alone.  He is the most kind and caring sole, giving to strangers as if they were his own.  According to Mike, he was ‘Living the Dream’.  Mike came home to attend his first NASCAR race in August with his family and friends, camping out all weekend.  That is our final memory of Mike and it will forever be close to our heart.

     Originally from LaSalle, MI, Mike is survived by 3 brothers, Larry (Roxanne) Smith of Erie, MI, Garry (Jamie) Smith of Monroe MI, Chris (Rachel) Smith of Cleveland, OH, one sister, Bonnie (Kevin) Pond of Brooklyn, MI and his most dear and loving friend in the world, Marnie Cooper of Columbia, SC.  Mike will be dearly missed by his 3 dogs, Kadee, Roddie and Ellie May, they put the sparkle in his eye and were the reason Mike woke up each day.  Mike (Uncle Busch) was a huge part of the lives of his nieces and nephews in Michigan, Tory, Alissa, Tim, Deahana, Nicole, Mike, Brandon, Jordon, Connor, Megan, Erik and Jake.  He was there for them unconditionally, anytime, any reason or anywhere; as he was for everyone he met.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Tim Smith of Monroe, MI and his parents, H.C. Smith and Mona Smith of LaSalle, MI.

     A celebration of Mike’s life in Columbia was held at the Publick House in Columbia on Sunday, December 4^th with over 100 friends in attendance.  Local funeral arrangements will be handled by Bacarella Funeral Home in Monroe MI.  Visitation is Saturday December 10^th from 10 a.m. to Noon with the funeral service to follow at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd. in Monroe. The Rev. Roy Southerland will officiate.  In lieu of flowers the family is accepting donations to help cover the unexpected expenses.  Donations can be made at Bacarella Funeral 1201 South Telegraph Rd., Monroe, MI 48161 payable to Bonnie Pond.