Linda Smith

Linda Smith

September 24, 1951 - February 01, 2023

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Obituary

Linda Aline Smith (Van Der Moere), 71 of Madison, WI. Linda passed away peacefully surrounded by family February 1st, 2023 at Agrace Hospice Care in Madison, WI. Born September 24, 1951, in Indianapolis, IN to William and Flora (Shepherd) Van Der Moere. Linda grew up in Rockford, IL graduating from Guilford High School in 1969 and later Northern Illinois University with a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education. She met the love of her life, Michael R. Smith while attending NIU and they were inseparable for the next 53 years of their lives.

Linda held a variety of jobs over her lifetime but was proudest of her time spent as an elementary teacher in the Harlem School District in Machesney Park, IL from 2000-2015. During this time Linda earned her Masters in Education from St. Xavier University.

Linda and Mike's proudest achievement and greatest joy was the tight knit family they created together. Linda was always in her element cooking a big meal for her family, as she enjoyed nothing more than filling her home with laughter and love. Linda bloomed best in her garden and was most often found outside tending and perfecting her various gardens filled with tulips, daffodils, and a plethora of vegetables. She was a lifelong learner and was in the process of earning her Master Gardening Certificate when she passed. An avid reader herself, Linda encouraged and taught many children and adults the joy of reading.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Michael R. Smith, her brother Steven Van Der Moere both of Madison, WI, daughter and best friend Jessica Crombie (Brian) of Middleton, WI, sons Michael Smith (Kaitlin) of Chicago, IL and Thomas Smith (Leslie) of Rockford, IL. Linda was the proud grandma to her four amazing grandchildren: Dori Smith, Tom Crombie, Jack Crombie, and Lucas Smith.

She was an incredible wife, mother, and grandmother and will be dearly missed by all who loved and knew her.

A celebration of life is being planned for this spring. In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda's honor can be made to Agrace and the World Literacy Foundation.

https://worldliteracyfoundation.org/donate/

https://www.agrace.org/donate/

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services 2418 N. Sherman Avenue 608-249-8257

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CM
Clare Merwin
Other •
To Mike and family, my deepest sympathy to you all. May the good memories help to carry you through this difficult time. My prayers are with you all and Linda.
DD
David Dittbenner
Other •
Carol and I used to hang out with Mike and Linda back before we all got married and had kids. Then for some reason we lost track of each other for about 30 years and one day I got a friend request with that great picture of Linda. It was so good to reconnect with them after so many years. Over the past few years we would get together whenever we could. They would come to MN to visit us or we'd visit them in Rockford or Madison. Linda was always a bright spot in our life - so fun to be with. We'll miss her laugh and just the happiness she spread being near her. Prayers, love and peace to you, Linda. We will surely miss you. Love, Carol & Dave Dittbenner
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Regina Albano
Other •
Although I only knew Linda for a short while from working with her at Vanilla Bean - she brightened my day each and every time I was with her. She was always so positive and upbeat; with a great sense of humor. We shared proud Grandma moments together. She will be missed. God Bless your family. Hugs. Regina
CD
Carol Dittbenner
Other •
Linda was such a special person. A kind and loving heart, intelligent, humble, accepting of all. Also such a sense of humor. She loved life and was so full of joy. She loved the children that she so patiently taught, and they loved her for making school fun. Linda is now free of pain and earthly boundaries. Her spirit will live on with loved ones as an angel, continuing her love and nurturing to all.
JH
Joyce Hessefort
Other •
I've only known Linda for a short time through Vanilla Bean and she was such a special person to work with. She is missed. My deepest sympathies to her family
SH
Shelly Hoefer
Other •
I never met you...but I worked with your son Tom. I know you must have been an awesome person...since your son is such a joy. I am so thankful I met him. He made work a joy when he was around. Just knowing him makes me feel like I knew you some. So sorry for the families loss. Just know you are always around in your love ones and the joy you have is totally in them! And they spread it every day! So sorry Tom. Shelly and kelly

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