Carol Smith

Carol L. Smith age 83, of Clear Lake, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

A celebration of life memorial visitation will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday March 29, 2025 at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel 310 First Ave North, Clear Lake. An inurnment will take place in Clear Lake Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Central Gardens, Saint Croix Hospice or IOOF Home in Carol’s memory.

Carol was born July 28, 1941, near Corwith, Iowa, the daughter of Earl and Lillian Chambers. Carol lived a beautiful

life filled with love, laughter and cherished moments. She often referred to herself as a “tough old Iowa farm girl,” a testament to her resilient spirit and strong work ethic.

For over 60 years, Carol was the devoted wife of Ken. Their enduring love story was one of partnership, adventure and unwavering companionship. Together, they explored the world, creating fond memories during their travels. From the sun-kissed shores of Fort Myers Beach to the scenic beauty of Duluth, Minnesota, and the majestic mountains of Estes Park, Colorado. Their love for the West bloomed during their honeymoon to the Black Hills. They cherished their travels, particularly their yearly Royal Caribbean cruises. Their journeys, especially to Estes Park, where they spent several summers camping and hiking the trails of Rocky Mountain National Park, were a source of joy for them and their family.

Carol dedicated many years to her career as a legal secretary in downtown Clear Lake. She began her career at the Boyle Law Firm before spending the remainder of her professional life at the Stillman Law Firm. Her sharp mind, attention to detail and warm personality made her a valued colleague and friend.

Beyond her professional life, Carol’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to Lisa and Susan, and a doting grandmother to Lea, Samuel, Ellie, and Elizabeth. The anticipation of welcoming her first great-granddaughter, Baby Girl Grell, in July filled her heart with joy. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Carol cultivated deep and lasting friendships throughout her life. She treasured her coffee dates and social gatherings, always eager to connect with those around her. Her warm and genuine nature allowed her to forge bonds with people she met during her travels, expanding her circle of friends far and wide. Her daughters often joked that her obituary would need to be posted on CNN, a testament to her wide network of connections and the impact she had on so many lives!

Carol’s kind and generous spirit touched all who knew her. She was the epitome of a loving, caring, and good-hearted person, and her memory will be forever cherished by the countless individuals who were fortunate enough to call her friend.

Carol is survived by her husband, Kenneth Smith; her daughters, Lisa (Charlie) Biebesheimer and Susan (Craig) LaKose; her grandchildren, Lea (John Graves) Biebesheimer, Samuel LaKose, Ellie Biebesheimer, and Elizabeth (Dalton) Grell; and her soon-to-arrive great-granddaughter, Baby Grell; her sister, Nancy Weber; along with several niece’s and nephew’s. 

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the staff of the IOOF Nursing Home for their compassionate care and warm friendship over the past five months. The family would also like to thank St. Croix Hospice staff for their kind and dignified care. Carol will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.