Michael Leon Smith

Michael Leon Smith "Pops" 70 went to be with the Lord on October 5, 2022. Michael was born in Visalia, CA. on October 24, 1951, to Leon "Hap" and Letha Smith. He was raised in Visalia, California, and graduated from Redwood High school. At the age of 13 years old, he started what would be his career as an upholsterer. He worked alongside his dad for more than 30 years. Michael lived in Gardnerville, Nevada for a few years where he was able to enjoy the great outdoors, specifically fishing and backpacking along the mountainside. Michael had a love for baseball and coached his sons and grandson throughout the years, where he then turned his passion for baseball towards umpiring. Umpiring gave him the ability to continue to be front and center to the game he loved so much. He umpired Little League, Cal Ripken, and on to Division One College Baseball. He was even invited to Cooperstown NY. to umpire. He felt very honored to be invited as this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Michael would pass on his knowledge and passion to his grandson Robert, whom he helped start Diesel's Officials Group, an umpiring business that would contract with local baseball organizations providing trained umpires. Michael also loved woodworking in his most recent years, although he was no stranger to this trade as many years prior, he studied draftsmanship and woodworking at Fresno State. Mike would make one-of-a-kind items for his family and close friends. He would even number and date each piece. Michael was very outgoing and never met a stranger as he could strike up a conversation with anyone. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Leon "Hap" and Letha Smith, and his sister Debbie Strum. He is survived by his children Devon Vasquez (George), Kevin Smith, and Scott Smith (Ally), five grandchildren Robert DeSoto (Bailey), Marissa Vasquez, Sebastian Smith, Hudson Smith, and Shawnee Smith and one great-grandson Maddox DeSoto, his two sisters Marcie Shaw (Roger), and Donna Jansak (Paul) and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his longtime friend Joleen Palmer. Michael will be missed for his unique sense of humor and stories. "Until we meet again Dad, we love you". Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, November 5th at 11am at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia, CA. Family Visitation at 11am with Celebration of Life at 12pm followed by a reception at the home of Devon & George Vasquez where his family would love for everyone to come and share memories with them. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Michael Leon Smith

October 24, 1951 - October 5, 2022