Michael John Smolinsky

MICHAEL JOHN SMOLINSKY age 81, beloved husband for 62 years of Laurine (nee Janis); loving father of the late Michael Andrew; cherished son of the late John and Jennie (nee Papesh);  brother of John (wife Ellie), Zeke (husband Thomas) and Susan (husband Huw deceased); brother-in-law of Andrew Janis (wife Mary Ann deceased) and Diane Klug (husband Ken); and uncle, great uncle and cousin of many.  He also leaves behind Annie, his much-loved Brittany Spaniel. 

Michael was a proud and devoted U.S. Air Force Vietnam Veteran. 

Michael was born October 3, 1942 in Cleveland and grew up in Euclid.  Upon graduation in 1960 from Euclid High School, he enlisted in the US Air Force.  He proudly served through four years, which took him to New Mexico, Turkey and Vietnam.  Returning from the war, he received his BFA degree from Lake Erie College.  Michael then began his long career at General Electric, initially at Nela Park and, as a hardworking strong-willed person, ultimately served as the Human Resources manager at GE facilities around the nation.  Favorite activities included trout fishing, bird dog training and pheasant hunting with bird dogs. Michael was an adventurous soul, which led him to hunting in South Africa, Uruguay and South America, fishing in Iceland, and bear hunting in Canada.  He was an active member of Weslaco Sportsman Club. Crooked Creek Conservation Club, Burton American Legion and a past president of the Ohio Brittany Club.  His family fondly remembers his dry sense of humor.  For the past 40 years, he has been a resident of Chagrin Falls. He was a devoted husband and father.  Michael passed away on February 14, 2024 and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Michael to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 496 East Washington Street, Chagrin Falls, Ohio at 10 AM. PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH.  Burial following with Military Honors at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Michael at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) TUESDAY 5-8 PM.