A Life Well Lived: David Mark Smith 1960 - 2026

If you were looking for David, you’d often find him exactly where he was happiest: busy at Mar-Tek, meticulously mowing his yard, or, once the work was done, settling in to watch the Broncos or NASCAR on the big screen, or taking his mom to Church on Sundays. When he needed to recharge, he loved nothing more than a long, relaxing soak—whether at the hot springs in Glenwood or in his own hot tub at home.

Born on July 29, 1960, at Landstuhl Military Hospital near Mainz, Germany, David began his life with a connection to a larger world that developed him into a Christian man. He was born to Bill and Irene (Bailey) Durand, while his father served with the 101st Division Paratroopers. Following his parents' divorce and their return to the States, David’s mother married Paul Smith, who adopted him. As an only child growing up in Arvada, David learned the value of connection early on.

His childhood was filled with the things he would later pass down to his own family: working on hot rods with his friends and heading into the Colorado mountains for fishing trips with his uncles and cousins—traditions he faithfully continued with his own three sons. He was also rarely without the companionship of a dog, with a special place in his heart for huskies.

Some of David’s fondest memories were the summers spent on his grandparents' farm near Carthage, Missouri. It was there, with Alfred and Dorothy Bailey, that he learned the rhythm of farm life, mastering the tractor and pickup. He grew so fond of that land that he and his mother eventually purchased a few acres of their own nearby, tending to a small herd of cows.

In his later years, David became a local legend in his own right, particularly for his love of holidays. He was famous in his neighborhood for his elaborate Halloween displays; he loved bringing the community together, watching as neighbors stopped by to take photos and seeing the delight on the children's faces as they navigated his spooky, festive yard.

In his final years, David embarked on his most significant and impressive adventure yet: stepping in as President of Mar-Tek Industries, his mother’s company.

Though he was dropped into the deep end during a challenging period for business, David did what he always did best. He dug in his heels, thought outside the box, and skillfully navigated the company back from the brink.

For nearly twenty-four months, he poured his heart into the business—balancing critical strategy with a deep sense of care for the foundation of the company and even more so for the employees. Supported by a dedicated network of colleagues, he proved himself to be a natural leader. There is no doubt that Irene would have been beyond proud, not just of his success, but of the man he had always been.

In recent years, David suffered from Respiratory issues and succumbed to them on February 18, 2026.

David Mark Smith is survived by his wife and Best Friend Adrienne, her mother Ruthie and siblings Monique, and Tozz II (Rowya) and David’s favorite nephew (Bevyn). His three sons, Michael (Denay) Smith and grandchildren Rylan and Grace; Lane Smith; and Cole (Dani) Smith. His aunts and uncles, Dale (Linda) Bailey, Enid (Orv) Lewis, Leila (Bruce) Koenig, Dean (Jo) Bailey along with cousins, Dale (Deb) Bailey, Dawn (Steve) Martini, and Cindy (Mike) Piersch, along with their families will all miss him. He will also be missed by his co-workers and friends. David was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his father-in-law Tozz Pegues, Sr.

Funeral services will take place at Horan & McConaty in Aurora, CO on Monday March 9th, 2026 the viewing 11:30am - 12:30p, with services 12:30pm - 1:30pm. Burial services at 2pm at Olinger Hampden Memorial Gardens. Flowers can be sent to Horan & McConaty 11150 E. Dartmouth Ave. Aurora, CO 80014