Janet I. Smith
Janet Irene Smith, 88, of Arcadia, died Monday, February 10, 2025, at her home.
Janet was born June 20, 1936, in Independence, the daughter of Carl and Mary (Symicek) Matchey. She attended Farmers School in Traverse Valley and Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic School. Janet graduated from Independence High School in 1954, and went on to attend Western Wisconsin Technical College.
On September 8, 1956, Janet married Claraton “Smitty” Smith. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary before he passed in 2016.
Janet balanced her career and her devotion to her family. She worked as a CNA at St. Joseph’s Hospital and as a home health aide at Franciscan Skemp Healthcare. She also enjoyed her time at Kennebecks Department Store. Her strong faith was evident in her commitment to Holy Family Parish, where she contributed as a money counter and as a member of the PCCW.
She served as a Girl Scouts leader and den mother. As a board member of United Volunteer Caregivers, Janet provided home care visits, embodying her spirit of service to others. She also volunteered at the OLPH mission/thrift store through RSVP. She was an avid golfer and bowler, actively participating in ladies bowling and golf leagues. Janet also enjoyed playing bingo and cards with her friends every week.
The three most important things in Janet’s life were her faith, her family and her special friendships.
Janet is survived by her children: Barbara (James) Garofalo, William Smith, and Benjamin Smith; grandchildren: Anthony and Joseph Garofalo, Ashley (Jake Lund) Little, and Allison (Wallace) Linsmeyer; great-grandchildren: Miles, Reece, and Wren Ro; brother, Clarence (Darlene) Matchey; sister, Judy (Darrell) Ellis; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Claraton; sons: Robert (Kristen) and Brian; brother, Ronald Matchey; niece, Stacy Matchey; nephew, Steve Matchey; great niece, Alexandra Joern; and In-laws: Gordon (Teresa) Smith, Sister Mary Gregory (Lodi) and Doris (Daniel) Sonsalla.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Michael’s the Archangel Catholic Church in North Creek. Reverend Kyle Laylan officiated. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, or to Holy Family Parish. To leave an online condolence for her family, please visit www.wozneykillianfh.com.
