SMITH, Barbara

Barbara Bremerkamp Smith of Phoenix, Arizona died on Sunday May 25, 2003 after 83 full years. She was born May 6, 1919 in Detroit, MI and had one beloved brother Eugene. Barbara married William Joseph Smith on January 12, 1944 during World War II at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Detroit. At 10 years old Barbara wanted to join the Merchant Marines so she could travel the world. She became a Registered Nurse and later owned and ran Smith's Travel Agency in Phoenix. By the age of 83, she had explored over 50 countries. She was an adventurer to the end, and at 80 years old went white water rafting in Alaska. Barbara is survived by her daughters Barbara Smith Mandalfino and Kathleen Smith McCollum and her son Robert Smith. Her beautiful daughter Elizabeth Jean Smith joined her in the arms of our Lord just four days after her death. She is also survived by her sons-in-law Gary Mandalfino & Charles McCollum and her five grandchildren Angela Mandalfino & Bridget, Scott, Kate and Clare McCollum. Published in the Arizona Republic on 6/1/2003.