SMITH, MERLE OLIVE SMITH STOWE, November 8, 1912 – October 22, 2004

POCATELLO – Merle Olive Smith Stowe Smith, 91, of American Falls, Idaho passed away and went to her Heavenly Father on October 22, 2004, at Hillcrest Haven Convalescent home in Pocatello, Idaho.

Merle was born on November 8, 1912 in Georgetown, Idaho, to Wells Harrison Smith and Florence Barkdull Smith. Merle was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Merle was raised in Georgetown, Idaho and finished high school there. In 1932, Merle married William Henry Stowe of Malad, Idaho. From this marriage Merle and Bill had five children: Joyce Stowe, born in Malad, Idaho (who passed away at birth); Marlean Sargent (Don) Sparks, Nevada; BarDee Firebaugh (Edward) of Pocatello, Idaho; Gail Mayne (Harry) of Grace, Idaho; and William Terrill Stowe of Edgewood, N.M.

Merle’s marriage to Bill lasted until 1957 when he was killed in an accident at his place of work. In 1967, Merle married Edward Smith of South Dakota. At that time she moved to American Falls, Idaho. Merle and Edward later separated but she spent the rest of her life in American Falls and had many great and wonderful friends there.

Merle had four brothers who preceded her in death: Ralph Smith, Sherman Smith, Leo Smith and Lynn Smith. She also had three sisters who preceded her in death: Mildred Armatage, Deniece Ashley and Arlene Wayment.

She has four living brothers and sisters: Glen Smith of Montpelier; Howard Smith of Georgetown; Don Smith of Montpelier; and Velda Kunz of Montpelier.

Throughout Merle’s life she enjoyed dancing very much. If there was a band at the senior center you would be sure to see her up dancing. She loved it so much. She always enjoyed going to the senior center in American Falls and meeting there with her many friends. She was always happy to spend time with her family and enjoyed her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and even a few great- great grandchildren.

The funeral service will be October 26, 2004 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Georgetown, Idaho with Bishop Vaughn Rasmussen officiating. Interment will follow at the Georgetown Cemetery.