Marilyn W. Smith

Marilyn W. (Powell) Smith, 75,Rockton: passed away peacefully at Rockford Memorial Hospital on June 20, 2012, after a short illness. Marilyn was born on December 20, 1936, in Monona, Iowa, to Clyde and Roberta (OBrien) Powell. She grew up in Polo, IL, graduating from Polo High School in 1954, and graduating from Rockford Memorial School of Nursing class in 1957. Marilyn married Daniel L. Smith of Byron, IL, on February 1 st , 1958, at St. Marys Catholic Church, Polo, IL. She was a resident of Rockford for nearly 50 years, and a Rockton residence since 1996.Marilyn worked very faithfully as a registered nurse for over 40 years at Rockford Memorial Hospital, OBGYN Assoc., Rockford Clinic, and Janet Wattles Mental Health Center. She retired from nursing in 1997 and spent her retirement years as a lector for St. James Catholic Church, a communion minister at Swedish American Hospital, a volunteer at Rockford Memorial Hospital, and compeer at Janet Wattles Mental Health Center. She was a board member for the Rockford Memorial School of Nursing Alumni Association, member of the Catholic Womens league, and the Red Hat Crimson Daisies.Marilyn is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Dan Smith, children Laurie (Bruce) Smith of Brooklyn Park, MN, Julie Smith of Rockford, Tim (Janet) Smith of Elk River, MN, and Tom (Lorelei) Smith of Oak Creek, WI, grandchildren Bridget (James) Suess, Zachary, Kelsey, Jordan, and Dylan Smith, and greatgrandson Tiernan Suess. She is also survived by her sister Jeannie (Vern) Johnson, brother Lanny (Linda) Powell, several nieces and nephews, as well as many close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters Marlene and Maria.A memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 26 th , 10:00 am, at St. James Catholic Church, 428 N. 2 nd St., Rockford. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 25 th , from 4 to 7 pm at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel. Private inurnment at Rockton Township Cemetery.The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at the ICU unit at RMH for their compassionate care and expertise. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in Marilyns honor.