Fern met her husband, Leroy, when she was 15 years old and married at 18 years old. They moved from Nebraska to Gateway, Colorado where they worked on the Hubbard Ranch. On the ranch, they lived the “cowboy life” until their first child was born and then spent time traveling. After the birth of four more children, they settled in Lincoln, Nebraska.
When Leroy passed, Fern involved herself in many activities. She loved bowling and played on a bowling league for many years. She would meet a group of friends at the mall and would walk several times a week. Her mission in life, besides her family, was her volunteer work at Southview Christian Church. She was a deaconess and helped with bible studies along with assisting during communion and funerals. Her greatest love was her family where she was the matriarch. She will be missed by many.
Fern is survived by her five children Bonnie VanSchoiack, Ray (Ofelia) Smith, Peggy (Peter) Wright, Connie (Irv) Stall, and Rick (Cec) Smith. She leaves behind nine grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Fern has one surviving sister, Alice Herbst.
She was preceded in death by her husband Leroy Smith, parents George and Lucinda Kissinger, five brothers and three sisters.
The family would like to acknowledge Gateway Vista and the staff who took care of her. The staff loved her dearly and their care was over and above the call of duty. We would also like to acknowledge her angel nurse, Amy, from Heartland Hospice. Amy lovingly guided and calmed us throughout the journey.
A memorial service for Fern will be held Monday, April 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Southview Christian Church, 2040 S 22nd St., Lincoln, NE 68502. In lieu of flowers, memorials are in the care of the family for future designation. Arrangements entrusted to Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.
