Mary Lou Smith

Mary Lou Smith, age 72 of Elk Horn and formerly of Atlantic area, died on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at the Salem Lutheran Home in Elk Horn. She was born and raised in Massena, Iowa to Olaf and Dorothy (Petersen) Nielsen in 1950. She spent her life making homes in Anita, Atlantic, and lastly in Elk Horn at Salem Lutheran Homes.

Mary Lou was married to Dennis Viether, then later to Ron Smith, and had a loving life partner in Merritt Spry.

She was preceded in death by her parents Olaf and Dorothy Nielsen; siblings Ellen Zellmer, Kenneth Nielsen, Betty Bruner, and Karen Grover.

Mary Lou is survived by: Daughter Rachel Clausen and spouse Jeff Clausen, Son Kevin Viether, Special Nieces Lisa Haas, Cathie Haner, and Julie Turley; grandchildren: Logan Clausen, Christian Clausen, Amber Clausen, Brenden Lee Adkins; great grand Children: Maya and Mila Adkins; great niece and nephews - Katie Sylvis, Kodie Haas, Kellie Haas; great great niece - Lyra Sylvis; and of course, her dog, - Rockie

All those that knew Mary Lou know that her joys in life were music, dancing, horses, reading, dogs, friends, and most importantly family. Mary Lou passed with her close family nearby to guide her to the next step in her life's journey.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Atlantic Animal Shelter in her memory.
www.facebook.com/atlanticanimalshelter

A celebration of life will be held at 2 pm Saturday, December 2nd at the Pizza Ranch in Atlantic. The Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Atlantic is caring for the Smith family at this time and condolences can be sent at: schmidtfamilyfh.com