Founder Of American Indian Film Institute, Michael Smith, Dies

SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- Michael Smith, the San Francisco founder of the American Indian Film Institute, died Feb. 14. He was 66. Smith "dedicated his life to Native cinema and was committed to sharing films for and about American Indian and First Nations peoples" for more than 40 years, according to a GoFundMe page set up for his family.

Described as a "beloved husband, father, brother, friend, uncle, nephew, and grandfather," Smith died from complications of the heart, the page said.

"His relentless spirit in educating and advocating for Native voices to be heard has paved the way for many Native artists throughout the decades.He loved his Indian people and he made it his passion to celebrate them in any capacity. His passing is a great loss for the Native film community and he will be greatly missed," the GoFundMe page said.

Smith is survived by his wife, Cindy Spender, children, Mytia and Sebastian Zavala, and granddaughter, Mayeux Red Eagle.

The family is accepting donations for Smith's funeral service.

--Photo via GoFundMe/GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner