Mary Elizabeth Smith, 80

Mary Elizabeth Smith, age 80 of Waseca, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2020 at Lakeshore Inn in Waseca.

Born in Owatonna on June 22, 1940, Mary was the daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Warsinski) Mollenhauer. She attended country school before graduating from Owatonna High School. She then continued her education to attain her nursing degree. Mary was married to Ronald J. “Smitty” Smith on November 1, 1958 at St. John Lutheran Church in Owatonna. She and Ronald made their home in southern Minnesota, where they remained all their lives. Over the years Mary worked at Herters in Waseca, then stayed home to raise her boys, worked several short-term jobs, and finally at the Faribault Regional Center until its closing. She continued to work in the personal care profession until her retirement. Mary enjoyed softball, bowling, bingo, waterskiing, go-carting, and roller skating… but more than anything she loved spending time with family and friends. A “people-person” to her core, Mary will be missed by many.

Mary is survived by her two sons, Tim (Sarah) Smith of Waterville and Dan (Mindy) Smith of Prior Lake; one brother, Robert (Pat) Mollenhauer of Owatonna; and numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and one sister, Wilma.

Private family services will be held at the Third Street Chapel of Dennis Funeral & Cremation Services in Waseca, with Rev. David Mumme officiating. Interment will follow at Woodville Cemetery in Waseca.