Monika Smith

Monika Smith, who emigrated from Yugoslavia to Des Moines, Iowa as a young girl with her family, passed away on March 13, 2026. Sponsored by St. John's Lutheran Church, Monika grew up in Des Moines, where she attended public schools and graduated from Lincoln High School. She later trained as a hair stylist and worked in that field for five years before beginning a career in the insurance industry as an underwriter.

While working in insurance, Monika met Curt, whom she married. The couple shared a love of travel and retired together in Prescott, Arizona, where they formed many new friendships. Monika took great pleasure in collecting Isabel Bloom figurines and tending her garden, which provided an abundance of fresh produce for her and Curt throughout the years.

She faced her health challenges with characteristic grace and charm. Monika is survived by her brother, J.R. (Mikaela) of Des Moines. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.