Michael Alan Smith

Michael Alan Smith, 71, of Denver, Colorado, passed away on February 15, 2026, days after returning from an art-filled trip to Bologna, Italy—one of his many beloved adventures. Born April 20, 1954, Mike is survived by his mother, Olive Jean Smith of Grand Junction, Colorado; sister, Kristina “Kris” Smith of Grand Junction; and brother, Greg (Christa) Smith of Mesa, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his father, William J. Smith.

As we began reflecting on our son, brother, and friend’s unique life story, it was clear that Mike’s life was deeply colored by passion. Mike was deeply passionate about his two hometowns – Craig, CO, and Denver, CO. He was passionate about the many diverse activities he shared with others. And, most importantly, Mike was deeply passionate about the hundreds of people he considered his friends. We ask your grace as you read this. We know we can never fully capture his deep, boisterous voice as he richly described each of you engaged in the activities he was so passionate about.

An Eagle Scout and member of the Order of the Arrow, Mike carried the spirit of service and leadership throughout his life. Mike attended the First Baptist Church for his entire life and participated in the choir, children’s church, Sunday school, and summer camps. At one point, he had more than ten years of perfect attendance. He graduated from Moffat County High School in 1972, where he was active in band, debate, and theater. Mike earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Denver in 1976, earned multiple undergraduate degrees in 1977, and obtained his Juris Doctor from Harvard University in 1980.

A member of the Colorado Bar, the United States District Court for Colorado, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, Mike built a distinguished legal career spanning more than 40 years. He began his career with Ireland, Stapleton, Pryor & Pascoe in 1980, becoming a partner in 1987, and served as Of Counsel at Jacobs Chase, Senior Counsel at Husch Blackwell, Of Counsel at Kline Alvarado Velo, General Counsel to James R. Favor & Company, LLC, and President of Lambda Chi Alpha Properties, Inc. His legal practice helped shape Colorado’s landscape, including ski areas, sporting venues, and amusement parks. He was a leader in the Denver and Colorado Bar Associations and served as chair of numerous state conventions.

His professional excellence was matched by his deep commitment to mentorship. Mike deeply believed in helping young people grow into leaders. He was a devoted mentor to the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity – an involvement he considered among his greatest accomplishments. Mike received the Order of Merit from Lambda Chi Alpha, the highest award an alumnus can receive for volunteer service at the chapter level. He spent decades advising undergraduate officers and serving on the Denver House Corporation. He served as a Barrister’s Cup Judge at the University of Denver College of Law for decades, was an adjunct faculty member and lecturer at the University of Denver, and remained closely engaged with alumni and student leadership initiatives throughout his life. Mike’s latest passion was serving as the Greek Advocate for the IFC on the Hill at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he worked with officers from dozens of fraternity chapters on leadership and risk management programming.

Mike’s civic engagement extended far beyond the legal profession. He actively supported numerous organizations, such as the Cherry Creek Arts Festival and the Stockman’s Show. He served on the Board of the American Heart Association and the Denver Board for the National Conference on Community and Justice, and supported countless philanthropic events, including the Brown Robe Benefit and the Heart Ball, where a line would form for the privilege of dancing with him. He was inspired by old Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly movies, his favorite musicals, and childhood trips with his parents to the Trocadero Ballroom.

Mike loved art, books, Broadway musicals, DU hockey, Broncos football, history, and spirited conversation. Friends describe him as brilliant, organized, quirky, fiercely intelligent, generous with advice, and unwavering in loyalty. He was thoughtful, loving, hilarious, and unforgettable, and he leaves behind not only a distinguished professional legacy but also a community of friends, colleagues, students, and loved ones who were shaped by his generosity of spirit and steadfast mentorship.

He will be deeply missed and long remembered, whether on a dance floor, in a courtroom, or surrounded by art and friends.

A memorial service will be held in Craig, Colorado, on April 25, 2026, at 11 am at The Journey at First Baptist, 1150 W 9th St., Craig, CO 81625. A graveside service at Fairview Cemetery (Ashley Road, Craig, CO) will occur at 1:00 pm.

A Celebration of Michael’s life will also be held in Denver, Colorado, on May 3, 2026, from 2-4 pm at Anderson Academic Commons, Room 290, the University of Denver Campus.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Museum of Northwest Colorado (590 Yampa Ave., Craig, CO 81625) in Mike’s memory.