Darlene Smithson, 67

Darlene Smithson, 67, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2006, at her residence in Coos Bay, Ore. She was born June 2, 1938, in Spokane, the daughter of Bert Ira and Flora Evelyn (Turk) Amick.

She attended schools in Whitefish after moving from Elk, Wash. On Sept. 3, 1955, she was united in marriage to Jerome Patrick Smithson in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. They had two children and one adopted child. She returned to Whitefish High School to finish senior year after her children were in school and graduated in 1966.

She worked for a while as a bookkeeper for Ibsen's Plumbing and helped her husband in the Christmas-tree business. She enjoyed the outdoors, bowling and traveling. After moving to the Oregon coast in 1987, she also enjoyed cooking, gardening and fishing.

She was very proud of her children and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Jerome, of Coos Bay; her daughter, Debra Lee Hoekema, and husband, Dale, of Jackson, Miss; son, Robert John Smithson, and wife, Paula, of Spokane; and adopted son, William Albert Smithson, of Mendon, Mich.; and six grandchildren, Laura Adams, David and John Hoekema, Cherina, Meranda and Darlene Smithson.

Private family graveside services for Darlene were held. There was no visitation. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to South Coast Hospice of North Bend, Ore.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Darlene's family.