Irma F Smith

PEKIN ~ Irma F. Smith, 90, of Naperville, passed away at 11:25 p.m. Thursday, March 17, 2011 at Meadowbrook Manor in Naperville.  She left to meet up with her dear husband, Glenn, who we know was patiently holding the door open for her. Irma was a former longtime Pekin resident.

Irma Smith was born Irma Francis Theresa Banicke in Berlin, Germany on March 23, 1920, to Frank and Helen Banicke. Along with her brother, Werner, they immigrated to the US in 1928, settling in Chicago.

In 1942 she traveled to Norfolk, VA. to attend her brother’s wedding. It was there she met one of Werner’s Navy shipmates, Glenn Smith. Irma and Glenn fell in love and were married on January 23, 1943. They moved to Pekin in 1949, where they made a lifetime home, raising three children, adding to the community through their volunteer efforts and making lifetime friends.  They were active members of Grace United Methodist Church, where Irma was a member of United Methodist Women and a member and president of the Tri-M adult Sunday school class.  She also served at Grace on the Church & Society Committee and co-chaired with Glenn, the missions committee.

Irma was great mother, grandmother, and generous friend to many. She will be remembered by her children for her unquestioning support of their decisions, her giving and helping nature, and acceptance of all. Her open mind and non-judgmental attitude shaped those around her. Her unassuming nature gave strength to others. She worked, traveled, helped others and lived a full life.

Irma is survived by her three children, Glenda Farrimond, Bruce W. Smith and Gale Smith, three grandchildren, John Farrimond, Amanda Andolina, and Brian Smith, and two great-grandchildren, Grace Farrimond and Isabella Andolina.

Irma was preceded in her journey by her husband, R. Glenn Smith on August 2, 2000, and her brother, Werner Banicke who died at sea during WWII.

Her graveside service will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, May 6, 2011 at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin.  Larry Stone, a family friend, will officiate.  Following the graveside service, her family will receive friends from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Friday in the Fellowship Hall at Grace United Methodist Church.   Please bring a story to share with the family as we celebrate her life together.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Irma Smith Tribute fund of the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave, Fl 17, Chicago, IL  60601.  http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-AlzheimersChampions?pg=fund&fr_id=1060&pxfid=29340 

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com