Michael L. Smith, 82

Michael L. Smith, 82, of Gosport, passed away on Sept. 17, 2026, at I.U. Health Bloomington. Born on Jan. 14, 1944, to Harold and Eva (Hart) Smith, Mike was a lifelong pillar of his community.

After graduating from Cloverdale High School in 1962, Mike attended Purdue University and Indianapolis Business College. Before returning to Cloverdale in ‘65, he applied his talents at Holcomb and Holt Engineers in Indianapolis and IBM. Upon his return, he took ownership of Cloverdale Hardware and Lumber Co., preserving its legacy as Indiana's oldest operating hardware store, established in 1887.

He proudly served in the National Guard for seven years and dedicated his time to numerous civic organizations and roles. He was a member of the Quincy Masonic Lodge, a Lions Club member, a volunteer with the Cloverdale Fire Department, an E.M.T. for Putnam County Operation Life, and past president of Invest Putnam Stardust Hills. He also held an Indiana Real Estate License.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Marsha (Harrah) Smith; his sister, Ellen (Smith) Davies; several nieces and nephews; many good friends and loyal customers; and his cherished cats, Bella and Inky.

He was preceded in death by his sister, La Vaughn Patten; and his four brothers, Harold "Red" Smith, Delmas "Joe" Smith, Max Smith, and Elvin "Epp" Smith.

Funeral services were held Sept. 24, 2026, at Whitaker Funeral Home in Cloverdale. Burial followed in Mannan Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.whitakerfunerals.net.