Obituary: Velma Linnea Smerdon

September 12, 1924 - September 6, 2013

Velma Linnea Smerdon, born 1924, Sept. 12th to Victor and Fanny Maki in Middle River, MN, whom had 11 children. Her family moved to a dairy farm in Esko, MN when she was 2 1/2 yrs old. She graduated from Esko High School in 1942 where she was involved in music, writing and was an editor of the school paper and yearbook. She married William Carl Smerdon of Duluth, MN in 1946, and they were together for 43 years until he passed away in 1989. They lived in MN for 40 years, and after retirement moved to Grants Pass, Oregon in 1986 to be closer to their children. In 2006 she moved to Fallon, NV to be closer to her daughter. She then became a member of the Oasis Community Church and Bible Study.

For over 40 years she was involved in Christian Women’s club ministry, including guiding and coordinating the friendship Bible studies. She was the organist, pianist, and directed choirs in churches of Carlton, St. Paul’s Lutheran of Cloquet, Fondulac, MN and Shan Creek of Grants Pass, OR. where she organized Sharing and Caring ministries to widows. She was involved in establishing Cub Scouts and Music Boosters in Carlton, MN. and she sang in the professional Carillon Choir of Duluth.

Velma enjoyed walking, writing letters, hiking, swimming, cross country skiing, and traveling which included trips to Alaska, Switzerland and Finland.

Velma is survived by her sister, Aini Myking of Cloquet, MN and two sisters in law, Florence ‘Lil’ Rendulich of North Branch, MN, and Mildred Maki of Vancouver, WA. Sons: William C. Smerdon Jr. (Donna), of Waldport OR; Michael J. Smerdon (Diane), of Pullman, WA; Gary R. Smerdon (Hallie), of Arlington WA; Daughter: Linnea K. Riehm (Robert), of Fallon NV, 17 Grandchildren, 21 Great Grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and numerous friends whom she considered family.

Velma spent the last few years of her life at Highland Manor in Fallon, NV. Her family would like to thank them for the care they provided in her final years with us. A Celebration of her life will be held in Grants Pass, OR at a later date.

Velma touched and enriched the lives of so many by her unselfish giving to others, sweet spirit and devotion to the Lord. She will be missed. Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home. 423-2255