Richard "Mike" Smith

Richard Michael "Mike" Smith, 56, of Oronoco, Minnesota, passed away Friday September 24, 2021 at his home. Mike was born September 1, 1965 in Albion, MI to Larry and Kathy (Bailey) Smith. He grew up in Midland, MI and graduated high school there. Mike graduated from Michigan Technical University in 1986 with a degree in Computer Science. He moved to Rochester in 1986 and started working for IBM. In 2004, Mike received his MBA from Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management in Evanston, IL. In 2010, after 24 years at IBM, Mike left and joined Preventice Solutions as CTO. At the time of Mike's passing he was CTO at Boston Scientific. Mike was passionate about cooking and was Chef/Co-Owner of Leaving Minnesota Food. He was a Past President of South Eastern Minnesota Youth Orchestra (SEMYO). On November 21, 2008, Mike married Cindy Walker. Mike was very devoted to his wife. In addition to his work and cooking, Mike's other enjoyments included traveling, fishing, running, hiking, golfing, and brewing beer. Mike is survived by his wife Cindy of Oronoco, Cindy's children Allison Walker, and Erik Walker. He is also survived by his mother Kathy Smith of Sierra Vista, AZ, and sisters Julie (Matt) Smith of Midland, MI, and Annette (Bill) King of Sierra Vista, AZ. Mike was preceded in death by his father Larry. A Happy Hour celebrating Mike's life for family and friends will be held on Friday October 22, 2021 from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM at the Ranfranz and Vine Remembrance & Reception Centre (5482 Royal PL NW, Rochester, MN). The family asks that everyone please dress casually. Mike liked his jeans and sweatshirts. Music was important to Mike, in lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to Bethel Lutheran Church, Larry C Smith Family Memorial Scholarship in Midland, MI and SEMYO. Cindy would like to thank Mayo Hospice, and especially Cheryl, Heather and others for all their help. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes is honored to be serving the Smith family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com