Marilyn May (Kvale) Smith, 92, of Whitewater passed away at home on Tuesday, October 30, 2024.

She was born on the family dairy farm in Hampden Township.  Marilyn was the daughter of the late Theodore and Viola (Fahrenkopf) Kvale.  She walked several miles to Nelson one room Schoolhouse grade school for eight years.  Marilyn attended Columbus High School and graduated in 1950.  Following graduation from high school, she attended Madison Vocational School in Madison.  She held jobs in Madison and Milwaukee.  While in Madison, Marilyn met William J. Smith of New Glarus.  They were united in marriage on November 14, 1953 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Madison.  After they were married, they made their home in New Glarus, where they started their family.  They lived in New Glarus until Bill took a job in Whitewater in 1962 and it was there the family became complete. Marilyn held many jobs one of which was working at Sears in Whitewater and later at Nasco in Fort Atkinson.  Marilyn’s most important job was that of mom, which gave her the most joy.

She had a kind and loving spirit and will be deeply missed.  Marilyn loved birds of the air and flowers in the garden.  Most of all she liked nature and long walks (hikes) through the prairie and her beloved marshland.  There wasn’t a tree mom didn’t love.

Marilyn was a long-time member of First English Lutheran church in Whitewater.  She grew much strength and comfort through her life long faith in the church and in Jesus Christ her savior.

Marilyn is survived by her children, Karla (Charles) Jacobson of Whitewater, Joan Smith Schenning of Whitewater, Nancy Smith of Whitewater, Brian Smith of Whitewater; daughter-in-law, Gail Smith of Fort Atkinson; grandchildren, Mindy (Dusty) Jones of Whitewater, Nathan (Carly) Jacobson of Janesville, Jessica (Nathan) Belz of Amery, Evan (Becca) Smith of Lakeville, MN, and Alex Hansen of Oshkosh; 9 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, William J. Smith; son, Richard William Smith; sister, JoAnn (Donald) Johnson; and brothers, Donald (Esther) Kvale, and Richard (Ruby) Kvale.

A funeral service will take place at 11AM on Monday, November 4, 2024 at First English Lutheran Church in Whitewater.  A visitation will take place from 9AM until the time of service.  Burial will follow immediately after services at Hillside Cemetery in Whitewater.

Nitardy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com