Gwendolyn Elizabeth Smies, 83, of Oostburg, passed away on Monday, October 29, 2018, at Pine Haven Christian Homes- Haven Drive Campus.
Gwen was born on October 20, 1935, in Oostburg, to James and Cora (Bruggink) Theune. She was a graduate of Oostburg High School.
On December 29, 1955, Gwen married Abram in Oostburg. She worked side by side with her husband of 63 years as they operated their fur farm. She also assisted Abe for many years as treasurer of the Kettle Moraine Mink Breeders Association. She was a dedicated mother and homemaker while faithfully raising their five children.
Gwen was a member of Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Oostburg where she was active in various church events and Rebekah’s Society. Additionally, she was a dedicated volunteer with the Oostburg Christian School Circle. She was an excellent cook and baker, and always had food for anyone who visited. Gwen enjoyed flowers, gardening, preserving her produce, and spending time with her family.
Gwen is survived by her husband, Abram Smies; three daughters, Susan (Paul) Bruggink, Sally (Daniel) Obbink, Sharon (Larry Evins, partner) Smies; and two sons, Scot (Joy) Smies, Steve (Georgia) Smies; nine grandchildren, Kari (Andy) Meinen, Jamie (Andy) Brill, Stephanie (Curtis) Warren, Brian (Sharon) Smies, Katie (Cody) Ellens, Kelly (Kurt) Franje, Sean (Tracy) Bruggink, Ross (Jessica) Bruggink, Elizabeth Smies; and 17 great-grandchildren.
Gwen was preceded in death by her parents, James & Cora Theune; sister, Marilyn (Gene) Buchanan; and a brother, Richard Theune.
A funeral service to celebrate Gwen’s life will be held on Monday, November 5, 2018, at 11 a.m., at Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Oostburg with Rev. David Veldhorst officiating. A burial will take place at Oostburg Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may greet the family at the Wenig Funeral Home in Oostburg on Sunday, November 4, 2018, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and again on Monday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m.
A memorial fund is being established in her name for Pine Haven Christian Communities and Oostburg Christian School.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice, Pine Haven Christian Communities, and Pastor David Veldhorst for their compassionate care.
For online condolences and additional information please visit
www.wenigfh.com
.
The Wenig Funeral Home of Oostburg (920-564-2771) is serving the Smies family with arrangements.
