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, Kenley, Tegan, Laryn and Irelynn; Leslie (Rodney Hemry; Tyler Hemry (Christy); Jewel, Sonny, Kroy, 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.