Lorella Smith Age 103, of Rice Lake, WI, died Friday, February 17, 2023 in Rice Lake.

She was born on March 27, 1919 to Napoleon (Nap) and Marence (Derousseau) Derocher.

She grew up with five siblings in the township of Doyle. She was united in marriage to Lloyd Smith on December 17, 1936. The couple owned and operated a farm in the township of Doyle. Lorella was an active member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Dobie where she was a member of the Altar Society. She was active in the PTA at Ulysses School. She and her husband were lifetime members of the National Farmers Organization. Lorella held several positions in NFO including: President of the Ladies Auxiliary, Publicity Chairman, sold advertising for and was editor of the county newsletter (Barron County NFO Reporter). She loved going to NFO conventions as a delegate. Lorella was an accomplished seamstress, sewing her family’s clothes, as well, as for many customers. She was an avid gardener and loved raising flowers as well as the family's fruit and vegetables. Lloyd and Lorella retired to rural Birchwood where Lorella became active in St. John’s Catholic Church. She enjoyed providing and arranging the altar flowers each week for six years. She started the nutrition program and delivered meals on wheels. She enjoyed and was active in the Birchwood Senior Center. Lorella and Lloyd enjoyed family get together, playing cards, and traveling. Upon the death of her husband, Lorella moved to Rice Lake and resided at 23 E Eau Claire Street.

She is survived by 4 daughters, Marcella Klenzendorf, Marion (Leroy) Hanson, Jeanne Lux and Sharon Mlejnek; 2 sons, Leslie Smith and Stuart Smith; 12 grandchildren, Sherry (Gary) Watson, Kimberly (Greg) Perkins, Allen (Sylvan) Wilson, Douglas (Sandy) Palmer, Christofer Mlejnek, Carla Kodesh, Anita Wise, Jackie (Craig) Thornton, Trent Schneider, Carolyn (Brett) Randolf, Ann Smith and Rodney Smith; 16 great grandchildren; and 10 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd; a granddaughter, Karen Goodenough; 2 sons, Loyd Palmer and Joe Schneider.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake is in charge of the arrangements.

Last Update: Feb 19, 2023 2:18 pm CST