Smits, Stella Marie

Other Events:

• Obituary: 12 Jun 2009; Appleton Post Crescent

Notes:

Obituary:
Stella Marie De Groot, daughter of the late Martin & Louise (Van Dyck) Smits, was born in De Pere, December 17, 1913, and lived in this area most of her life. The former Stella Smits and John De Groot were married in St. Mary Catholic Church, De Pere, May 27, 1935. He preceded her in death on December 18, 1986. Stella was a member of St. Mary Christian Ladies, St. Mary Quilters, and Meals on Wheels.
Stella and husband John were well known in the bowling circle taking many honors. Stella took high single game in the City Tournament in 1958 and many first place trophies. Stella and John loved camping and spending time with their many friends at Berry Lake.
She is survived by two children: Wayne (Carol) De Groot and Kathy Smits; four grandchildren and spouses: Scott and Sue De Groot, Julie and Jerry Brockway, Todd and Rene Smits, and Kristina and Chad Olsen; eight great-grandchildren: Alex Brockway; Kieran and Samantha De Groot; Noah and Cameron Smits; and Kaitlyn, Marissa and Conner Olsen; a sister, Margaret Reince; a very dear friend, Lois Le Duc; and many dear nieces, nephews, and extended family of Brian, Todd, Jon, Renata and Julie.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters: Joan Evearts, Angie Schumerth, Florence Van Ermen, Eloise Zirbel, and Marion Smits; two brothers: Ossie Smits and Raymond "Bud" Smits; son-in-law, Neil F. Smits; granddaughter, Mary Louise Smits; and a very special friend, Carl Matzke, who Stella was very proud to have known.
A special thank you to the entire staff at Birch Creek for their amazing care and kindness, and to Southern Care Hospice for their dedication and concern.
Family and friends may call Monday, June 15, 2009, from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Community, Pope John XXIII Circle, off Sportsman Drive, Town of Ledgeview. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the church on Monday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David Duffeck officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery. Cotter Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements, 920-336-8702. Online Condolences may be expressed to Stella's family at
www.cotter
funeralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established at St. Mary Catholic Community.

Stella married DeGroot, John F. 27 May 1935, St. Mary Catholic Church, Depere, Brown, Wisconsin, USA. John (son of Degroot, Frank Conrad and Anderson, Elizabeth) was born 10 Dec 1911; died 18 Dec 1986, De Pere, Brown, Wisconsin, USA. [Group Sheet]