Theresa Clara Smith

Theresa Clara Smith

Norway

Theresa Clara Smith, 98, of Norway, IA passed away March, 27, 2024 at Oldorf Hospice House, Hiawatha, IA.

Theresa was born September 15, 1925 to Alphonse and Ida (Pickart) Bange at home in Norway, IA. She graduated from Norway High School, class of 1943. Following his time in the U.S. Navy, Theresa married Edward Smith on February 4, 1947 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Norway, IA. Together they lived in Norway where they raised their family.

Working side-by-side, they owned and operated Ed’s Budweiser for 20 years. Following the tavern, Theresa worked at Killian’s and JCPenney’s department stores from which she retired.

Theresa enjoyed crocheting, playing Euchre (by her own rules). She volunteered at the Norway Baseball Museum and loved spending time visiting care centers and family. Theresa was supportive and caring, and was known by many as “Mother Theresa”.

She was a member of St. Michael’s of Norway and the Women’s Catholic Order of Foresters.

Theresa is survived by her children, Edward A. (Ellen) Smith Jr. of Martelle, Kristine Veneski of Ocala, FL, and Jill (Tom) Petrzelka of Leonard TX; grandchildren, Rodney, Dawn, Wendi, Ricky, Matthew, Lyndsay, and Jason and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward; sisters, Celestine (Dolly) Schulte, Hildegarde Simoens, Marcella (Butch) Murphy and granddaughter, Loriann Mead.

Mass of Christian Burial is 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 1, 2024 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Norway, IA. Visitation prior to the service from 9-11 a.m. Burial will take place at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Norway.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com

Brosh Funeral Service of Norway is assisting the family.