Ethan Michael Smith

Ethan Michael Smith, 20, of Rochester died Tuesday in Pierce County, WI, as the result of an airplane accident. Ethan was born November 27, 2001 in Rochester, MN to Peter and Janna (Johnson) Smith. He graduated from Lourdes High School in 2020, where he participated in cross country, hockey, and track. Incredibly goal-driven and ambitious, Ethan earned his Associate Degree in Business from RCTC in August 2022 while working part-time and pursuing his true passion, aviation. He successfully obtained his private pilot's license in June 2021, followed quickly by his instrument rating and commercial pilot's license in the spring of 2022. He acquired an impressive 650 flight hours in pursuit of his aspiration to become a commercial airline captain. Ethan's love for flying was evident from the time he was young and he lived out that passion every day. Ethan loved being with his family and friends. He was fiercely loyal, dedicated, and kind, always willing to go the extra mile for those he loved. With his positive outlook and lightheartedness, Ethan was a pure joy to be around. His laugh and smile were infectious. He had an incredible zest for life and enjoyed it to the fullest, whether through traveling, participating in water sports, off-roading, snowmobiling, or helping his dad rebuild a Jeep. Ethan was guided by his core values of hard work and personal accountability to help him reach his goals. He will leave a profound and lasting impact on the numerous lives he has touched. He is survived by his parents Peter and Janna Smith, his brother Liam Smith, and his Maternal Grandparents Michael and Eleanor Johnson. Ethan is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Paternal Grandparents Richard and Joann Smith. Fly High, Ethan. A memorial service will be held Friday September 16, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home (5421 Royal PL NW, Rochester, MN 55901). Visitation will be on Thursday September 15, 2022 from 4:00-8:00 PM at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Friday. Burial will take place at a later date at St Mary's Cemetery in Lake City. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the family, a memorial will be set up at a later date in Ethan's name. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Smith family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com