Erika Marie Smith

Erika Marie Lasek was born on July 12, 1942 to Franz Josef and Marie Lasek in Saaz, Czechoslovakia. She passed away with her family by her side on February 2, 2017. She is preceded in death by her parents; one sibling, William Lasek; son, Marco Smith; and her loving husband, Bernis Leighton Smith. She is survived by her daughter, Michele and husband Jayme, as well as two grandchildren, Skyelar Marie and Leyton Marc Taylor. Also surviving are several loving relatives in Germany.

After her mother's death when she was only five, she grew up in her cousin, Hannelore Devadass's household in Germany. The girls were close and did everything together until Erika met and married Bernis Leighton Smith in 1964. Since Bernis was a US citizen, she chose to immigrate to the United States and begin her new life. The had 52 wonderful years together until Bernis passed away in November 2016. Erika followed him in death 79 days later. Over the years, she dealt with serious health issues with great strength and determination and devoted her life to her daughter and grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by all.

At her request, she will be cremated and join her husband in their final resting place at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia.

Arrangements entrusted to Kraeer-Becker Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Deerfield Beach, FL.