Michael Noah Smigelski 3rd Annual Basketball Tournament
Michael Noah Smigelski peacefully entered heaven on March 20, 2023. He was born in Medicine Hat, Alta., on March 11, 2003, the only son of Neil and Anne Marie Smigelski and younger brother to Rachel Willis (Smigelski). Michael grew up in Oyen, Alta., beginning his education at Assumption Roman Catholic School, continuing at Oyen Public School for junior high, and finishing at South Central High School.
During high school, Michael worked part-time at A&W, where he quickly became known as the kindest worker on staff. He greeted every customer with a warm smile, making each person feel welcome. Outside of work, he loved spending time with friends Nathan and Maddock. When his mom suggested he stay in, he would grin and say, “I’ve got to go vibe with my friends.”
That same loyalty and enthusiasm followed him after high school. He convinced Nathan to move to Calgary with him while he attended SAIT’s Pre-Electrical Program. Michael apprenticed with Trecc Electric for several months before returning to Oyen to explore new opportunities. There, he joined Supra Energy on the Borea Windmill project, where his hard work, dedication, and positive energy earned the admiration of his crew.
Michael’s passions included basketball, The Mandalorian, and shoes—more shoes than anyone else in his family. A devoted LA Lakers fan, he admired Kobe Bryant and the “Mamba Mentality”: striving to be the best version of yourself. Michael lived by this philosophy and inspired those around him to do the same.
Since his passing, his family and Oyen High School have honoured his legacy with an annual basketball tournament and a scholarship awarded to a local Grade 12 student.
Scholarship recipients:
2024 – Anthony Lawrence
2025 – Luke Caskey
The 2026 tournament is tentatively set for Jan. 30–31. Oyen A&W will again donate $2 from every Teen Burger sold to Michael’s Scholarship, with TDG Food sponsoring the event.
Michael is remembered for his kindness, laughter, passions, and the way he brought people together. Through this tournament and scholarship, his legacy continues to lift others—just as he did in life.