Born Louis Fred Smith on September 28, 1931, the son of Albert and Rose (Herzog) Smith, in Marshalltown. He received his education from Minerva #8 Country School, St. John’s Lutheran School and graduated from State Center High School in 1948.

Louie was a faithful follower of His Lord and was baptized on October 25, 1931 by Rev. Zabel at St. John’s Lutheran Church near State Center. Louie was a charter member, helping build Trinity Lutheran Church in State Center. He served as an elder, head usher and served on the church board for many years. Louie also served as a Minerva Township Trustee, was a member of the Lions Club and Farm Bureau.

Louie served eight years in the naval reserve before he was honorably discharged in 1959. He was very proud of his time in the naval reserve. During training cruises, he served on several warships, anything from destroyer escorts to the battleship USS Wisconsin. His young life was very much enriched by his experience in the naval reserve.

In 1955, Louie met the love of his life on a blind date in Marshalltown; On November 23, 1957, Louie was united in marriage with Jeanine White from Webster City, IA. They were blessed with one son, Greg and one daughter, Jennifer. They resided on a farm north of State Center and in later years moved into town.

Louie was a farmer who felt a deep connection and passion to the land and for the livestock he fed and cared for. Being a farmer was his calling from his Lord and Savior. He fed cattle all his life and made many trips throughout IA, NE and other western states beyond to find the “perfect bunch” of steers, meeting and making many friends in the business along the way.

Louie was proud of his family being able to work together as a unit, whether it be haying the cattle, picking up eggs or walking beans. Louie shared passions with both of his children – horse shows with Jennifer and cattle feeding and farming with Greg. Louie and Jeanine loved to go ballroom dancing together, visiting local and various national parks, embracing nature, taking family vacations and spending time with loved ones and friends.

Louie was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Rose; and an infant sister, Theda. Left to cherish his memory: his wife, Jeanine; son, Greg (Kelly) Smith; daughter, Jennifer Smith; granddaughter, Emma (Korey) Bracy and their son, Luka Bracy. Louie is also survived by his sister Darlene Miller of Spencer, IA.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in State Center. Visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery in State Center. Memorial donations may be directed to Louie’s family for later designation to Trinity Lutheran Church or an Alzheimer’s organization of your choice.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Louie and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.