Elaine W. Smith, 94

Elaine W. Smith, 94, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away Jan. 3, 2017, at home surrounded by family. Elaine was born on Sept. 12, 1922, in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., to Albert and Susan (Hrbovsky) Gitler. Elaine grew up in Johnson City, N.Y., and graduated from Johnson City High School. After graduation, Elaine left her small hometown for the big city, Washington, D.C. She worked as a civil servant at the Pentagon for a short while and then moved to Bermuda where she continued her government work with the Air Force.

Elaine met her future husband, James Smith, in Bermuda and they were married there before moving to Yonkers N.Y., and then on to Orange County, Calif. Elaine and Jim remained in Orange County until they retired and moved to Coeur d’Alene in 2004. While in California, Elaine worked as a secretary and bookkeeper for various companies, including Standard Oil.

Elaine loved to travel and had made trips to Great Britain, China, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, and other places. She enjoyed reading, gardening, concerts and the local theater. She was active with Toastmasters.

Her church was very important to her. While living in California, she volunteered her time as president of the Women’s League and taught Sunday school. Elaine was devoted to her family and her church. She will be missed by many.

Elaine is survived by her brother, Matthew (Elaine) Gitler of Milwaukee, Wis.; her three children, Barbara Smith, Pete (Piper) Smith and Laurie (Steve) Ayles; four grandchildren, Ryan and Eric Ayles, Katie (Matt) Wagner, and Jordie Smith; one great-grandchild, Claire Wagner; her sister-in-law, Gerry Gitler of Endwell, N.Y.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Elaine was predeceased by her parents; her husband; brothers Albert and Dan Gitler; and sister Alma McCartney.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 1, 2017, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1700 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Coeur d’Alene, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Elaine’s name to Christ the King Lutheran Church or Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden, ID 83835.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Elaine’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.