Irene Smith

Irene A. Smith, age 94, of Darlington, WI, passed away Thursday, December 26, 2024, at the Lafayette Manor in Darlington. She was born September 6, 1930, in Cassville, WI, the daughter of Adam and Susie (Rauch) Mumm. Irene grew up in Cassville on a farm with her 10 siblings. After graduating from Cassville High School, she received her bachelor's degree from Platteville State College with licenses to teach mathematics, chemistry, and physical education. She began her teaching career in Pardeeville, WI, where she met her husband, Leonard "Red" Smith. In May of 1955 Irene married Leonard G. Smith in Dubuque, IA. She and her husband were blessed with two children before a tragic accident took Leonard's life in November of 1958. Later, she received a teaching job at the Darlington School District where she worked until her retirement in 1992. She quickly learned that she couldn't easily give up teaching, and began substitute teaching for many years, all while raising her family. Irene is survived by her children: Diane (Jim) Hole and Stanley Smith both of Darlington; her grandchildren: Jenna Hole, Alynna (Jeremy) Bricco, Mitchell (Nichole O'Brien) Smith, and Caitlin (John Taylor) DeLay; two great-grandchildren: Brady and Adaleigh Bricco; and two sisters-in-law: Gerry Mumm and Patricia Mumm. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Leonard; and her 10 siblings. Irene was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, its CCW, and served on the Parish Council for several years. She also spent several years as a 4H leader. Irene's passion for athletics was not just a personal pursuit but a communal gift. She brought her enthusiasm and expertise to the fields and courts where she coached track, cheerleading, and gymnastics with a commitment that went far beyond the mere teaching of skills. Her advocacy for gender equality in sports was both groundbreaking and tireless. As an advisor for the Girls Athletic Association (GAA), Irene was instrumental in creating women's sports programs at Darlington High School that fundamentally changed the landscape for female athletes, ensuring that they had the same opportunities as their male counterparts. She was an avid golfer, a strategic card player, a voracious reader, and a skilled knitter. She was exceptionally proud of her family and loved to spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories they will all cherish forever. A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, January 9, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church (104 E. Harriet St., Darlington) with Fr. Chris Gernetzke officiating. Burial will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery at a later date. A rosary will be prayed at 9:00 A.M. followed by a visitation from 9:30 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.