On Sunday, July 19, our BEAR family lost one of our most dedicated advocates, Michael Smith.

Michael leaves behind his 16 year old son, Ben, along with many family members and friends who are grieving this sudden and heartbreaking loss.

His friends and his son didn’t just lose him. They watched him collapse. They immediately started CPR, carried him to the ambulance, and held onto hope that he was going to make it. They did everything they could.

If you attended a BEAR event, a Box Elder County Commission meeting, a panel discussion, or a signature gathering, chances are you met Michael. He was one of the strongest voices in the fight to protect Box Elder County. He believed deeply in this cause and gave his time, energy, and heart to helping others.

Michael wasn’t just passionate. He was kind, generous, and always willing to step up wherever he was needed. His passion and zest inspired so many of us, and his absence will be felt throughout our community.

After someone passes away, the bills don’t stop. There is already a $2,000 hospital bill, and there will likely be additional expenses from the ambulance, emergency physicians, specialists, and other medical care, on top of funeral costs and the financial burden now placed on his family.

We are hoping to help Michael’s family through the difficult weeks and months ahead.