Milford Community Mourns the Loss of Mable Smidt at 86
The Milford community is grieving the loss of Mable Smidt, who passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 86. Known for her bold honesty and compassionate heart, Mable was a fixture in her community and touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity.
Mable’s straightforward nature made it clear where she stood on any matter, while her easygoing spirit brought comfort and warmth to everyone who knew her. Throughout her life, she was recognized as a hardworking woman who always put others before herself, offering support, comfort, and honesty in equal measure.
Roots From Nebraska to Delaware
Born October 28, 1939, in Bliss, Nebraska, as Mable Marie Harkins, she was one of six siblings born to Harvey and Grace Harkins. Mable’s early life in Nebraska was filled with family and the close bonds she maintained with her brothers and sisters across multiple states including Nebraska, South Dakota, and California.
Her life path led her through several states, including Michigan and Iowa, reflecting a journey marked by family ties and resilience. Mable married her first husband, Bernard Lee Fulkerth, in 1959 and together they raised five children. She became widely known for her decades working at Bil-Mar turkey factory, Jo & By’s Pub, and Taco House—where she spent 30 years making a lasting impression on co-workers and patrons.
Love, Loss, and Lasting Memories
Later in life, Mable remarried Darryl “Cowboy” Smidt, sharing many adventures and a love that remained a defining part of her story. Even after his passing, she carried Darryl’s memory close to her heart, speaking of him frequently and with deep affection.
Mable’s immediate family includes her five children, Bernie (Deb) Fulkerth, Daniel (Natascha) Fulkerth, Randy (Connie) Fulkerth, Dean Fulkerth, and Tammy Naab, along with two stepchildren, Brenda (Gene) Nattress and Mike Smidt. She leaves behind nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, descendants who will carry her legacy forward for generations.
Celebration of Life Scheduled for May 9 in Milford
The family will honor both Mable and Darryl with a celebration of life service on May 9, 2026, at the Turner Jenness Funeral Home in Milford. Visitation is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m., with services following at 3 p.m..
In memory of Mable, the family encourages donations to the Abben Cancer Center in Spencer or Lakes Regional Hospice in Spirit Lake, acknowledging the care and compassion these organizations provided during her final months.
Community Reflects on a Life of Strength and Warmth
Throughout her final days, Mable was supported by InHome Personal Care, the Abben Cancer Center, and Lakes Regional Hospice, whose dedicated care ensured she was treated with dignity and kindness. The family’s heartfelt thanks extends to these providers for their exceptional compassion.
Mable Smidt’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life that leaves an indelible mark on Milford and the many communities she touched. Her unwavering honesty, generosity, and loving nature will be remembered and celebrated by all who had the privilege to know her.
“Mable’s strength and kindness inspired us all; her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and community,” the family shared.
