Maurice “Mouse” Gene Smith, 71, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at his home in Ontario, Oregon. He was born on March 9, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, and was one of seven children born to Chuck and Silvie Smith.

Maurice was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Brandon, and is survived by his siblings: Michael D. Smith and his wife Jan (Westervelt) Smith; Cathy M. Smith and her husband David Smith; Janean M. Erlebach and her husband Michael Erlebach; Anita L. Gallagher; Kevin P. Smith and his wife Sheri Smith; and Rebecca A. Smith. He was also a survived by multiple nieces and nephews.

He was a devoted uncle who loved his nieces and nephews deeply, finding immense joy in time spent with them.

Maurice was a longtime partner in Smith’s Pack & Ship, where he worked for over 20 years prior to his passing. He was known as a hardworking, dependable man who never hesitated to lend a hand. If Mouse had something you needed, the answer was always yes.

Family meant everything to Maurice. In his mother’s final years, he lived with her, caring for her and ensuring she was never alone. During winter storms, Maurice would be up early, clearing snow at the shop and then at home, all so his mother could safely leave the driveway and make her daily trip to church for Mass. His family remains deeply grateful for the love, responsibility, and dedication he showed during that time.

Maurice enjoyed working on projects in his shop, often with NASCAR races or college football games playing in the background. One of his greatest labors of love was restoring his Grandpa Van Wassenhove’s 1952 Chevy Deluxe—a project that spanned more than 15 years. While his mother was not able to see the finished car before her passing, Maurice completed it in time for their Aunt Mary to enjoy a ride with her friends. The car stands today as a testament to his patience, craftsmanship, and devotion to family.

Fishing was another passion of Maurice’s, right alongside NASCAR. He recently acquired a “new to him” fishing boat and had begun installing upgrades in anticipation of his upcoming retirement—a retirement he was very much looking forward to. Though he did not get to finish those projects himself, his family promises they will be completed in his honor.

Maurice “Mouse” Smith will be remembered as a caring and generous brother, uncle, friend, and son—someone whose quiet acts of love spoke louder than words. His kindness, work ethic, and willingness to help others will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Maurice’s name to the Oregon Wildlife Foundation.