Karen A. Smith

Karen Annette Smith, 70, of Havana, originally of Eagle River, WI passed away at Graham Hospital at 8:12 a.m. on Saturday, December 17, 2022. She was born on October 18, 1952 in Rhinelander, WI to Harold and Joan (Thieme) Novack. She married Craig A. Smith in 1979 in Eagle River, WI.

Karen is survived by her husband Craig, her son, Randy (Denise) Smith of Havana, IL; her grandchildren, Owen, Evylen, and Alaina Smith; her siblings, Janet (Roger) Griinke of Woodruff, WI, Christine Novack of Eagle River, WI and Paul (Dawn) Novack of Eagle River, WI; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Joan Novack.
Karen most cherished her grandchildren, and the time she spent with them. Karen also loved her two golden retrievers, Goldie and Chipper. She loved the outdoors, especially vegetable and flower gardening, hiking, crappie fishing, snowshoeing and making maple syrup with her husband, Craig. Karen was also an avid reader, being a member of several book clubs. Karen enjoyed crocheting and traveling to the Caribbean and other warm locales as well.
Karen worked for many years in the clerical departments of several clinics and hospitals. She put in many hours over the years dedicated to her work and volunteered for the Red Cross in her free time and in retirement. Karen always made sure everyone had what they needed whether that was a hug, a full belly or support during a time of need.
A memorial visitation for Karen will take place on January 4th, 2023 from 2p.m - 4p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Havana, IL. A celebration of life will also take place in Sugar Camp Town Hall in Rhinelander, WI on May 20th, 2023.
Memorial donations may be made in Karen’s name to the Red Cross. Condolences may be left for her family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.