Mable Smidt

The world became a little dimmer on April 26, 2026, when Mable Smidt of Milford, Iowa, left us. Anyone who knew Mable knew she always spoke her mind — you never had to wonder where she stood. She had a caring heart like no other, and her kindness, friendliness, generosity, and easygoing nature touched everyone around her. A hardworking woman who always took care of business, Mable consistently thought of others before herself, offering help, comfort, and honesty in equal measure.

Mable was born on October 28, 1939, in Bliss, Nebraska, as Mable Marie Harkins, the daughter of Harvey and Grace Harkins. She grew up in Bliss alongside her five siblings: Patricia (Jerry) Day of Ord, NE; DeWayne “Butch” (Maria) Harkins of San Diego, CA; Judy (Ron) Brock of Yankton, SD; Debra (Cole) Stevens of Chambers, NE; and Linda Closson of O’Neill, NE.

Mable grew into someone who loved traveling, enjoying family time, and sharing moments with the people she cared about. She attended Bartlett High School and, in 1959, married her first husband, Bernard Lee Fulkerth, with whom she had five children. Over the years, she lived in Nebraska, Michigan, and Iowa. Many will remember her from her years at the Bil‑Mar turkey factory, Jo & By’s Pub, or The Taco House, where she worked for 30 years and became a familiar, beloved face.

Later in life, Mable remarried Darryl “Cowboy” Smidt, with whom she shared countless adventures. She spoke of him often and with great passion, carrying his memory close to her heart even after his passing.

Mable leaves behind her five children: Bernie (Deb) Fulkerth of Hartley, IA; Daniel (Natascha) Fulkerth of Kenosha, WI; Randy (Connie) Fulkerth of Alta, IA; Dean Fulkerth of Milford, IA; Tammy Naab of Milford, IA and two stepchildren Brenda (Gene) Nattress and Mike Smidt. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, fourteen great‑grandchildren, and one great‑great‑grandchild, all of whom will forever carry her stories, her lessons, and her love for generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Grace Harkins; her first husband, Bernard Lee Fulkerth; her second husband, Darryl “Cowboy” Smidt; and her brothers‑in‑law Jerry Day and Ron Brock.

A Celebration of Life honoring both Mable and Darryl Smidt will be held on May 9, 2026, at Turner Jenness Funeral Home in Milford, IA with visitation from 1 – 3pm and services at 3pm.

In memory of Mable, the family welcomes donations to Abben Cancer Center in Spencer, IA, or Lakes Regional Hospice in Spirit Lake, IA.

The family extends a heartfelt thank‑you to InHome Personal Care, Abben Cancer Center, and Lakes Regional Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they provided to Mable during her final months.