Elizabeth Theresa Clara Ryan

RYAN – Elizabeth Theresa Clara, 101, New Germany, died peacefully at home. Born January 5, 1921, in New Germany; the last surviving child of Joseph and Margaret (Long) Smith. Preceded in death by parents; son-in-law, George Rouse; seven brothers, Vincent, Clement, Cletus, Benno, Thomas, Father Julian Smith, O.S.B., and Father Ermin Smith, O.S.B.; and four sisters, Mary Chirdon, Helen Smith, Sister Mary Basil Smith R.S.M., and Sister Mary Matthew Smith R.S.M.

Survived by daughter, Sheron Rouse, New Brighton, Minnesota; son, Shaun, married to Gina (Liberatore), Bloomington, Minnesota; grandchildren, Shayne (Stocker), wife of Ralph Adair; Kelly (Ryan), wife of Michael Link; and Danny and Conor Ryan; special nephew, Scott Smith, married to Irma (Eckenrode); and numerous other beloved family and friends.

Member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Germany. Elizabeth served as a Staff Sergeant with the US Women’s Army Corps during WWII and was a retired Compliance Investigator for the D.E.A. She had a lifelong interest in learning new things. She was an adventurer at heart and cherished traveling. An avid collector of stamps, coins, and bakelite. She also enjoyed real estate, trading stocks, and investing; and found enjoyment in hand crafting wool rugs, agate hunting, and metal detecting. Family meant the world to her. She could be a ruthless card player, even bending the rules from time to time. Her charismatic charm and gentle spirit will be remembered by all who loved her.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass which will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Father Joseph C. Nale, celebrant.

Inurnment, St. Marys Cemetery, New Germany.

Military graveside service by St. Michael American Legion Post 551.

Arrangements by Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork.