Susie Ann Smisek

SUSIE ANN (KROCAK) SMISEK, age 75, of Le Center passed away at her home on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Born on October 29, 1949, in New Prague, Susie was the beloved daughter of Louis and Adaline (Vlasak) Krocak. She attended Holy Redeemer Catholic Grade School and graduated from Montgomery High School. On October 12, 1968, she was united in marriage to John Smisek at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Montgomery. After living in Mankato for a few years, the couple settled in Le Center, where they raised their family and built a loving home.

Throughout her life, Susie held a variety of jobs, but her most cherished role was caring for her family. She also lovingly provided daycare for close family and friends. A gifted seamstress, Susie was recognized with both national and state awards for her beautiful creations. She was a long-time active member with the LeSueur County Pioneer Power. She delighted in making homemade ice cream with her sister and family and alongside her husband they managed and maintained the log cabin. She supported her Czech heritage with her husband going to antique shops in search of Czech memorabilia and especially through her active involvement in the Minnesota Czech Pageants. She was actively involved in the Girl Scouts being a leader for many years. Her passion for tradition, community, and family shone in everything she did.

Susie was a devoted grandmother who took great joy in attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and cheering them on with pride.

Susie is survived by children, Mark Smisek of Waterville, Peter (Denise) Smisek of Otsego, and Anne (Andy) Jans of Waterville; son-in-law, David Domonoske of Waterville; grandchildren, Meghan Novotny, Haley Fjerstad, Zachary Smisek, Gavin Smisek, Alex Smisek, Lauren Smisek, Clayton Jans, Alenka Jans, and Wyatt Jans; honorary granddaughter, Anne Schreiber; great-grandchild, Mason Novotny; sister, Roxann Jelinek (Dean Wintheiser) of New Ulm; sisters-in-law, Darlene Krocak of Waterville, Ellen (Randy) Picka of Morton, Dorene Edwards (Larry Gartner) of LeSueur.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John; daughter, Amy; brother, Kenneth Krocak; sister, Judith Pfarr; and her parents. Visitation will be held from 4 – 7 PM on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Le Center Funeral Home in Le Center. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 AM on Friday, June 6, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Le Center. Interment will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery in Montgomery.