Ellene Rita Smith, 86, of West Union, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Ellene Rita Troendle was born on June 9, 1940, in Lansing, Iowa, to Carl and Rita (Schulze) Troendle. She graduated from high school and later worked as a dietary cook in a hospital.
On April 29, 1961, Ellene married Virgil Duane Smith at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Lansing. To this union, three children were born: Lisa, Leslie, and Kelly.
Ellene was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved baking and faithfully made Christmas treats every year for her family and friends. She also enjoyed gardening.
Ellene is survived by Lisa (Keith) Carey; Melissa (Travis) Scholbrock; Lainey, Kenzie, Tegan, Laryn and Irelynn; Leslie (Rodney Hemry; Tyler Hemry (Christy); Jewell, Sonny, Troy, Emerson and Tate; Leah (Brian) Zweibohmer; Lexi Scholbrock; Addison, Deidra, Faith, Bristol, Brylee and Hannah (Tom) Smith and Eli; Brothers, Dick (Jan) Troendle; sister, Sue (Greg) Gilbertson; and multiple nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Rita Troendle; her husband, Virgil Smith; her son, Kelly Smith; her brother, David Troendle; and her sisters, Carolyn Thorsten and Janice Keith.
A private graveside service will be held.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union, Iowa is assisting the family with arrangements.