Susan M. Smith

Susan M. Smith, age 74, of River Falls, passed away peacefully on March 4 at her beach front cabana in Belize with her husband by her side.
Born on April 6, 1950, to Walter and Helen Bakke, Susan grew up in Hudson, Wisconsin. She met the love of her life, William Smith, as a teenager, and they married in 1969. Together they raised two children, Angela and Jesse, and shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.
Whether it was enjoying music with Bill, family gatherings, outdoor adventures, or quiet times with loved ones, Sue enjoyed fun times with great people.
Her bright smile, infectious laughter and genuine heart drew people to her. A truly beautiful person, inside and out, family and friends looked to Susie as a patient listener and trusted confidant to support them in both joyful and difficult moments. Her strength, especially in her battle with cancer, was a testament to her grace and resilience. Through all of life's challenges, Susan's spirit and compassion never wavered.
Susie had a passion for gardening that extended beyond her own backyard. Not only did she help friends and family with their gardens, but she also quietly volunteered at the rain garden on Main Street at Oakpark Apartments for nearly 20 years. Her green thumb was matched only by her caring heart, as she nurtured both plants and people with the same love and attention.
In the 90's, Sue's outdoor adventures expanded to Placencia, Belize. After retiring from more than 40 years at 3M, she and Bill spent winters at a beachfront cabana where even the fish were drawn to her – she usually caught the most fish, and always the prettiest.
Susan is survived by her husband, William Smith; her children, Angela (Bruce) Whitaker and Jesse Smith; her grandchildren, Mason and Morgan Smith, Alexandra (Bryce) Robey, Anja Whitaker; great grandchildren Hazel and Harvey; siblings Clifford (Pam) Bakke, Judy (Mark) Shafer, and Lisa (Tom) Rose; and many other family members and friends who will miss her deeply.
A celebration of Susan's life will be held on April 19th at Johnnie's Bar 116 N Main St, River Falls, WI 54022 from 3-7 pm.
Services are entrusted to the O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For further details, please see www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com, or call 715-425-5644.