Ardene Marie (Wiitala) Smith

LINCOLN

  Ardene Marie (Wiitala) Smith, age 93, passed away on February 17, 2026, in Lincoln, Kansas. She was born on September 25, 1932, in Rib Lake, Wisconsin, to Herman and Alvina Wiitala. Ardene grew up in a small town in northern Wisconsin alongside many siblings. A studious child, she faced serious health challenges early in life but met them with resilience and determination.

  On September 15, 1951, she married Evan Smith in New London, Wisconsin. Together they built a life blessed with two daughters. Even as she later experienced declining eyesight and memory, Ardene remained determined to enjoy each day to the fullest.

  She found great joy in tending her gardens and caring for her beloved dog, Sammy. Watching her plants grow and bloom brought her deep satisfaction. Known for her pluck and perseverance, she never hesitated to break new ground with a spade in hand. Ardene was active in her church, teaching Sunday school and participating in women’s groups. She also devoted more than 30 years of service as a nursing assistant at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home in New London, Wisconsin.

  Ardene is survived by her daughters, Janet Humburg and Elaine (Mike) Parrish; her grandchildren, Donald (Amber) Parrish, Dena (John) Sorensen, and step-grandchildren William (Angela) Humburg, Kim Humburg, and Tammy (Peter) Santi. She was a treasured “GG” (great-grandmother) to Kale, Maren, and Clara Sorensen; Marin and Hannah Humburg; Devin and Cole Lysne; Tyler Springstroh; and Alex and Sam Santi, along with many nieces and nephews.

  She was preceded in death by her husband, Evan Smith, who entered eternal life on February 9, 1980; her parents, Herman and Alvina Wiitala; son in law, Bill Humburg; her sister, Juanita Nikkala; and her brothers, Victor and Ardin Wiitala along with many half-siblings.

  Ardene’s life was marked by quiet strength, steadfast faith, and a deep love for her family. She will be remembered for her determination, her generous spirit, and the beauty she cultivated both in her gardens and in the lives of those who knew her.

  She will be interred at a later date at Royalton Cemetery in Royalton, Wisconsin.

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