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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Jean Smith
JEAN M. SMITH
Cedar Rapids
Jean M. Smith, 89, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Thursday, July 21, 2016, at Northbrook Manor Care Center. Her body has been donated to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program. Per Jean's request, no services will be held. The University of Iowa's spring memorial service will honor Jean. Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Marion, is assisting the family.
Jean was born April 2, 1927, to Leigh and Thelma (Oelke) Mathews in Farmersburg. She attended school there, was valedictorian of her class, and received six letters playing basketball. The U.S. Army offered a select group of young women scholarship awards to St. Luke's School of Nursing. After three years of school and passing the required test, Jean was the proud owner of the R.N. degree.
Jon "Jack" and Jean met on a blind date and fell in love. They were married in Iowa City on Feb. 5, 1949. She was working for the famous foot doctor, Steindler. They moved to Marion, where Jean learned to play golf. She played mostly with good golfers, who loved to play along, because she was such good company.
For about 15 years the Smiths ran with good friends almost every summer weekend. They also rode their bikes whenever they could. They counted two marathons and at least six RAGBRAIs in that time. They also joined a fun bike club that still meets for coffee five days a week.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jon; son, Lewis Dale; and cherished grandson, Nathan.
Per Jean's request, memorials may be directed to St. Luke's Hospice.
Please share a memory of Jean at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.
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