Monique “Nikki” Smitala passed away peacefully on 10/19/2025, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of service, wisdom, and kindness.

Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, the eldest of nine children, Nikki’s life was defined by compassion and devotion to others. At just fifteen she entered the convent of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit.  She earned degrees in nursing and social work in Chicago and Washington, D.C.  At St. Therese Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois, she served as Pediatric Charge Nurse and founded one of the county’s first hospital social-work departments, which helped establish its first inpatient psychiatric unit.

In 1968 Nikki left the convent and married Kenneth Smitala, a widower with seven children. Together they built a blended family, raising eight children in all and creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and grace.

Nikki’s deep spirituality guided her every step. A devoted Catholic open to all faiths, she attended mindful retreats, practiced daily gratitude, and sought to live fully in the moment. “I believe there is a loving God waiting to welcome us,” she once wrote, “and I try each day to deepen my spirituality.”

She was happiest when surrounded by family and friends—hosting gatherings, celebrating milestones, or simply sharing good conversation and laughter.  She made her home in North Central Wisconsin, where she cherished the beauty of the Northwoods and the calm of the lakes. Even more enduring were the memories created at the family’s cabin on Bass Lake, a place of laughter, swimming, campfires, and togetherness that spanned generations and remained one of her heart’s true homes.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth. She is survived by her sons Todd (Claudio, Agnaldo), Thomas, Paul (Lori), Kenny (Margaret), and Stephen (Donna); daughters Julie (Mike Jadrich), Christine, and Cynthia (Richard Higley); 16 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and countless relatives, friends, and former clients who cherished her guidance and care.

Family Reflections

Nikki’s family remembers her as a woman of quiet strength, gentle humor, and boundless love. She taught by example—through patience, compassion, and an unfailing sense of gratitude. Her grandchildren recall her laughter at family gatherings, her calm reassurance in difficult times, and the way she made every person feel deeply valued. Friends and neighbors speak of her as a listener, a healer, and a light in their lives.

"The family wishes to express special gratitude to her niece, Katy, whose total devotion and daily care brought Nikki immense comfort and dignity. Katy accompanied her to every appointment, checked on her at all hours, and gave the kind of love and presence that defined what family truly means."

A small memorial service will be held in the spirit she wished—filled with prayer, memories, and song. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity supporting nursing, social services, spiritual growth or your favorite charity in Nikki’s memory.