Obituary of Mark Smith

Mark passed away on February 15^th, 2022, in Greeley, Colorado, surrounded by family, love, and comfort. He was born on October 30, 1945, in Prague, Oklahoma, to Key and Lorene Smith.  Mark grew up in Sterling, Colorado, where he played football and ran track at Sterling High School.  Following his high school graduation in 1964, Mark enlisted in the U.S. Army.  During his three years in the Army, he served in the Vietnam War as an Army Medic, and was stationed in the Demilitarized Zone in North Korea. His military recognitions include the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea), the Good Conduct Medal, and the Sharpshooter award.

Mark attended the University of Northern Colorado and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business.  Following college, he began a lifetime career as a brick mason.  He took great pride in his work, and became well-known in Northern Colorado as a skilled and meticulous craftsman.  He was sought out for the quality of his work.  Mark cultivated good relationships in his work, and he treated his employees and others in the trade with respect and generosity.  He was well-liked for his congenial, soft, gentle, and fun manner.

Mark was an avid golfer and enjoyed bowling and grabbing drinks at Highland Park Lanes with his buddies. Anyone who knew him adored his warm and friendly demeanor, smile, easy-going attitude, generosity, loyalty, and quick wit. He was the best husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend anyone could ask for.  Many of his loved ones referred to Mark as Schmitty, Marky Mark, and Dude, among other nicknames. Mark’s unmatched sense of humor and tender heart and kindness will live on in our hearts forever.

Mark is survived by his wife Laurie; sister Sharon (Bill) Whitcomb, Minneapolis; children Kelly (Terry) Cecil, Jaime Smith, and Ryan Smith, all of Greeley; grandchildren Skyeler, Austin, Dylan, Colin, and Peyton; brothers-in-law Tom (Kathy) Wheeler and Dan Wheeler; his aunt, niece, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.  Mark is also survived by his former wife, Cheryl. 

Mark’s Life Celebration will be held at Generations Church in Greeley, CO, on Thursday, May 5^th at 1:00 p.m.  Private burial will be at Fort Logan National Cemetery on May 6.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the “Humane Society of Weld County” or “Eaton Country Club” for the junior golf program in care of Adamson, 2000 47^th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634.  Friends may leave condolences at AdamsonCares.com.