Obituary of Christopher M. Smith

Christopher M. Smith, 59 of Salinas passed away Sunday May 27^th, 2018 after a short heroic battle with cancer.

Chris was born February 7, 1959 in Santa Cruz Ca.  He graduated Baymonte High School in 1976 and attended Cabrillo College.  Chris entered the workforce at age 16 for Swensen’s Ice Cream, ultimately achieving management status within his 10 years of service.  Chris became the manager of Smith China and Gifts and ran the family business for 32 years until its recent closing.  Chris’s lifelong passion and knowledge of wine ultimately lead him to his dream job as assistant manager of Scheid Vineyards.  In addition to his employment Chris enjoyed traveling, cooking, reading, muscle cars, photography, music and wine.  Chris especially loved being with his family and friends.

Chris is survived by his mother Ruthann Wagner, father Robert Smith, sister Robann Smith Fuller, sister Rebecca Cote’ (Robert), nephews Matthew Cote’, Michael Cote’, Jack Bunter, cousin Greg Smith, brother in law Ken Bunter (Kathleen), the love of his life Rebecca Bunter Smith, numerous family and lifelong friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 16^th, at Monschke Hall on the Twin Lakes Church campus beginning at 11am.  He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Oakwood Memorial Park beside his beloved grandmother, Edna Mae Kinne.

Any kind acts of charity can be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society.