Karen L. (Gaerte) Smith Obituary (1937 - 2020)

Karen L. Smith, 82, of Churubusco, passed away on July 23, 2020, at Lutheran Life Villages at Pine Valley. Born in Whitley County, on November 10, 1937, to the late Curtis and Julia (Connor) Gaerte. She spent her formative years in Whitley County, graduating from Churubusco High School in 1955. Karen was married to Roger Smith on July 7, 1958. The couple raised their family on their farm in rural Churubusco. She was a devoted wife and mother. She also assisted Roger on the farm and loved to ride her tractor. In addition to raising her family, she also drove school bus for many years. She was a member of the Blue River Church of the Brethren. Karen is survived by her husband of 62 years, Roger Smith; two sons, Jeffrey (Denise) Smith and James (Becky) Smith; a daughter, Jacqueline (Michael) Clouse; two sisters, Judith (Terry) Wooten and Virginia (Terry) Skiles; five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Richard, Gene, K. P. and Ike. Services will take place at Blue River Church of the Brethren on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., with calling one hour prior to the service. The family will also receive friends at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home on Monday, July 27, 2020 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Burial taking place at Eel River Cemetery, Churubusco. Memorials to Blue River Church of the Brethren or Allen County Right to life. Online note to the family at www.sheetsandchilds.com.