Mable Smidt, Cherished Milford Resident, Passes at 86
The Milford community is grieving as Mable Smidt, a beloved longtime resident known for her unwavering kindness and straightforward spirit, passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 86. Her death marks the end of a remarkable life filled with dedication to family, hard work, and heartfelt generosity.
Born October 28, 1939, in Bliss, Nebraska, as Mable Marie Harkins, she grew up in a large family, honing the values that would shape her character. Mable’s honest and caring nature made her a pillar in every community she touched, including Milford, where she spent her final years alongside her large and loving family.
A Life of Service and Devotion
Mable’s working years included 30 memorable years at local institutions such as the Bil-Mar turkey factory, Jo & By’s Pub, and the Taco House. Known for her hard work and friendly demeanor, she became a familiar and faces in the Milford area, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.
Her personal life was just as rich. She married Bernard Lee Fulkerth in 1959 and raised five children with him. Later, she remarried Darryl “Cowboy” Smidt, sharing countless cherished adventures before his passing. Mable carried his memory with passion and love, often speaking about the joy they found in each other.
Legacy and Family Impact
Mable leaves behind a large family including her five children: Bernie (Deb) Fulkerth of Hartley, Daniel (Natascha) Fulkerth of Wisconsin, Randy (Connie) Fulkerth of Alta, Dean Fulkerth, and Tammy Naab of Milford. She is also survived by two stepchildren, Brenda Nattress and Mike Smidt, along with nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild who will carry her stories and lessons for generations.
Her family praised the exceptional end-of-life care provided by Abben Cancer Center in Spencer and Lakes Regional Hospice in Spirit Lake, as well as the support from InHome Personal Care, highlighting the compassion that surrounded Mable during her final months.
Upcoming Memorial Service
A celebration of life honoring both Mable and Darryl Smidt will be held at Turner Jenness Funeral Home in Milford on May 9, 2026, with visitation from 1-3 p.m. and services at 3 p.m. Friends, family, and community members are encouraged to attend and share their memories of a woman who never hesitated to speak her mind and always put others first.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Abben Cancer Center or Lakes Regional Hospice to help support patients and families facing difficult journeys.
Mable Smidt’s passing leaves a palpable void, but her legacy of honesty, generosity, and fierce love will resonate deeply in the Milford community and beyond.
