July 1, 1931-Nov. 24, 2014

 

Constance (Connie) Maurine Goens, 93, of Decatur, passed away suddenly at her home on Monday, Nov. 24, 2014.

Her husband of 56 years, Bert Goens, was by her side at the time of her death.

Connie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who will be remembered for her generosity, her sense of humor and her integrity. Connie loved nothing more than to have her family around her and enjoyed sharing stories, listening to music, playing cards, golfing and bird watching.

Connie obtained her bachelor of science degree from Western Michigan University and worked for several years as a teacher. She completed her professional career in 1992 as CEO and president of Smith Hoist Manufacturing Company, Inc., a family business.

Connie was the daughter of Levola E. Brown and Charles R, Smith, Sr. She is survived by her husband Bert of Decatur, daughters Linda Lee (Larry) Jones of St. Petersburg, Florida; Sharon (Mary Ann) Goens-Bradley of Minneapolis, Minnesota and Sheila (Jack) Clarke of Riverside, California. Connie had three grandchildren, Chynna and Jack Clark III and Mikaela Jaielle Goens-Bradley.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles Smith Sr. and Levola Tillman, and her siblings Charles Smith Jr. and Gloria Sanchez.

Funeral services for Connie will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014, at Newell Funeral Home 83313 M-51, Decatur.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 2 p.m. until time of service at the Newell Funeral Home. A repast will follow the funeral at the VFW Hall in Decatur.

For those who wish, memorials may be made to Van Buren Emergency Medical Services or Habitat for Humanity.