Edwin Mark Smith, MD.

Edwin Mark Smith, MD, known to most as Ed, passed away at the age of 97 on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, in Westminster, Colorado. Born on April 10, 1927, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Edwin Merle Smith and Ivaleen Hough Smith, Ed lived a long and fulfilling life.

Ed spent his early years in Grand Rapids, graduating from Central High School in 1945. That same year, he joined the Navy, proudly serving for 1 year. After serving Ed returned to his studies, attending Grand Rapids Junior College before transferring to the University of Michigan.

At the University of Michigan, Ed’s love of learning and deep curiosity grew. He earned his degree in 1949 from the School of Literature and Arts before pursuing his passion for medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School. Graduating in 1953, he completed his internship and residency at the University of Michigan Hospital in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Over the next two decades, Ed dedicated his career to the University of Michigan, rising to full professor.

In 1977, Ed transitioned to private practice in Flint, Michigan, focusing on Electromyography. After decades in the medical field, he retired in 1992.

Ed met his wife, Shirley McDonald, while attending junior college. They married on February 4, 1950, in Grand Rapids, embarking on a 65-year journey of partnership and love. Together, they built their home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where they raised their two daughters, Patti and Linda. Ed was a devoted husband, father and ultimately grandfather, creating a family filled with adventure and curiosity.

Ed was as much an intellectual as an adventurer, a man who never stopped learning, and he enjoyed exploring topics from history to science. After retirement, combining their love of travel and birdwatching, Ed and Shirley visited over 70 countries. A devoted sports fan, Ed rarely missed cheering on his beloved University of Michigan Wolverines and remained a loyal follower of the Detroit Tigers and Lions throughout his life.

Ed’s wisdom, and quiet strength left a lasting mark on all who knew him. His kindness and curiosity inspired those around him, whether through his professional work, or his love for learning more about the interests of his family and friends.

He is survived by his sister, Frances (George) Smolak; his daughters Patricia Calvert and Linda Sullivan; his grandson Conor (Grace) Sullivan; step-grandchildren John (Teresa) Calvert, Jerry (Karen) Calvert, and Jane (Mark) Sanders; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, and his parents Edwin and Ivaleen, and his brother John Smith.

Ed spent his final years in Colorado, living with his daughter Linda, where he enjoyed the mountains and time with his grandson and great-grandchildren. Edwin’s legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched with his compassion, intellect, and curiosity. He will be deeply missed. A private celebration of Ed’s life will be held in Michigan in the spring of 2025.