HOUGHTON -- A student at Michigan Technological University has died following an accident on Mont Ripley Ski Hill.
Robert W. Smith, 18, of Norton Shores, was skiing at about 5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, when he apparently lost control, went off the run, and hit a tree. First aid was provided by members of the ski patrol, who transported him down the hill. He was taken by Mercy Ambulance to Portage Health System, where he was pronounced dead.
"This is devastating for all of us here at the University," said Michigan Tech President Glenn Mroz. "Our hearts and prayers are with his friends and especially his family as they struggle to cope with this tragic loss."
Smith, a mechanical engineering major and 2007 graduate of Mona Shores High School, was an experienced skier and a member of the University's ski team club.
Michigan Tech's Public Safety Department and officials at the ski hill have investigated the accident and will submit their findings to the state's Ski Area Safety Board.
University Counseling Services is providing grief counseling to Smith's friends in West McNair Hall, where he was a resident, and to the rescue workers who responded to the accident.
Funeral arrangements announced.
Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, at the Clock Funeral Home, 1469 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49941. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 8, at the Laketon Bethel Reformed Church, 1568 W. Giles Road, in North Muskegon. Condolences can be sent to the Rob Smith family, in care of the Clock Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions can be made in Rob's memory to the Mt. Ripley Ski Patrol in care of the Michigan Tech Fund, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton MI 49931.
Information on Rob's life will be at http://www.lifestorynet.com/memories/32760/ .
Smith, a mechanical engineering major, was an experienced skier and had been training to be a member of the Mt. Ripley Ski Patrol.
Editor's Note: This press release is courtesy Marcia Goodrich, senior writer for Michigan Tech University Communications. Keweenaw Now wishes to express our deepest sympathy for the family and friends of Robert W. Smith.
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