Mary Smolek

Mary (Klosinski) Smolek, 90, of DeMotte, Indiana, and formerly of North Judson, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, surrounded by her family in Crown Point, Indiana, after a brief hospital stay. Born on May 11, 1935, in rural Starke County, Indiana, to William and Clara (Guzik) Klosinski, Mary was a familiar and friendly face in the North Judson community and her church for many years. It was there that she met and married her true love, Joseph E. Smolek. Together, they worked their family farm for 67 years and raised their children. Joe and Mary shared a lifetime of travels and stories that they cherished and loved to recount together. Mary truly never knew a stranger; she always had a warm "hello" and loved to carry on a conversation with anyone she met. She was known for her big heart, giving spirit, tireless work ethic, and love for animals. Above all, Mary was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family, who remained the center of her world. Mary's legacy lives on through her children: Betty M. Travis, Marilyn (Kenneth) Lukac, Arlene Gray, Joseph E. (Ruth) Smolek Jr., and Helen (Robert) Valiquet. She was the cherished grandmother of Matthew Travis, Jennifer (Seth Draper) Travis, Erika (Stephen) Garrison, Kyle Lukac, Wesley Lukac, Janelle (Matt Rans, Cody Valiquet, and Owen Valiquet. Her light continues to shine through her great-grandchildren: Amy Travis, Olivia Travis, Jocelyn Draper, Cooper Draper, Colby Garrison, Eve Garrison, Iris Garrison, Grady Garrison, Reed Garrison, Ella Rans, and a new great-grandchild arriving soon, Baby Rans. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph E. Smolek; her son, Richard Smolek; her parents, William and Clara; and her sister, Clarice Blazo. Visitation will be held Monday, April 6, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM CST at O'Donnell Funeral Home in North Judson. A Rosary service will take place Monday evening at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 10:30 AM CT at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, North Judson. Interment will follow at St. Jacob's Catholic Cemetery, North Judson.

Mary Smolek

May 11, 1935 - March 29, 2026