Melissa (Jahnke) Smith
February 07, 2013
Melissa, born November 5, 1975, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home, on Thursday, February 7, 2013, at the age of 37.
Melissa was a lifelong Des Moines resident, attending Holy Family School and Dowling Catholic High School.
Left to cherish her memory are the loves of her life, her husband, Tony Smith; her children, Elizabeth, Gracie, Nicholas, Jack, Quentin, and Ivy. Melissa is also survived by her parents, William and Laretta Jahnke; grandmother, Betty Jahnke; grandmother, Dollie Watters; mother-in-law, Rose Smith; sisters, Jennifer and Amanda Jahnke and Angie; brothers, Ben Jahnke and Jason; as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many special friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Ernest Jahnke; grandfather, Vernon Watter; father-in-law, Chuck Smith; and her biological mother, Cheryl.
Visitation will be held Sunday, February 10, 2013, from 4 to 6 p.m., with a 5:30 p.m. prayer service, at All Saints Catholic Church, 650 NE 52nd Avenue in Des Moines. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, at the church, with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.
In loving memory of Melissa, memorial contributions may be made to her family for the future needs of her children.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Amy (Willard) Renes
02/11/2013
Bill and LaRetta,
I am so sorry and shocked to hear of Missy's passing. From the time I met her playing softball, when we were 7 or 8 years old, and through the years she has always had an infectious smile! Praying for your family in your time of loss.
Kish Harris
02/11/2013
To the Jahnke family, my love & prayers are with you. Missy was one of my best friends growing up. I know many years have passed but my heart is just as heavy. I will truly miss her & will remember all the laughs she & I shared growing up. May God bless you all & fill your broken hearts with His love.
Mary Carey (Friend from Dahl's)
02/10/2013
Bob and family,
I am so sorry about your loss.
May some peace come to you soon.
Many blessings
Linda Herring
02/10/2013
LaRetta, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Theresa Lunn
02/09/2013
Bill & Laretta,
I'm so sorry to hear about Missy. I remember how close she and Eric were when they were little, & how much we looked forward to coming down for a visit. She will be missed by a lot of people...my love and sympathy to all of you.
Ray, Dixie and Tucker Watters
02/09/2013
Bill, LaRetta and Family, We are at a loss of words with "Little Missie's" passing.The first child of that generation in the Watters family, her passing will leave a deep void.Our thoughts, prayers and hearts go out to you and Tony and the kids for comfort and healing.
Dennis & Dee Shroyer
02/09/2013
We are both so saddened for your loss. Our sympathy and prayers are with you all.