Karen Smet, 82, De Pere, passed away surrounded by her family, Monday, April 6, 2026, due to complications from an auto accident.

She was born on January 20, 1944, to the late Leland and Adeline (Schultz) Fels.

Karen was a 1962 graduate of De Pere High School. On September 12, 1964, she was united in marriage to Dan Smet at St. Mary Catholic Church, Glenmore.

Growing up on a hobby farm, Karen had all kinds of animals and especially loved her horses. Her family enjoyed camping and waterskiing.

When she and Dan entered the construction industry, Karen did the bookkeeping, allowing her to be a homemaker and raise her two sons, which she greatly treasured. Karen drove their boys to endless motorcross races across multiple states and was their biggest fan. They also enjoyed yearly motorhome trips to Florida. Their favorite destinations included Fort Wilderness (Disney World), the Florida Keys, and St. Augustine. This led to them being snowbirds in Melbourne Beach, Naples, and finally Bonita Springs. They also enjoyed their summers in Egg Harbor.

Karen was a proud grandma and continued cheering on all her grandkids in every sport they participated in, serving as one of their biggest fans. The tradition of traveling to Florida carried on with her grandchildren, as visits to see Grandma and Grandpa are some of their favorite memories. Spending time with Karen and Dan in Egg Harbor is another treasured time the kids will remember.

Karen was a beautiful woman, inside and out. If there was someone in need, she would be the first to help.

She is survived by her husband Dan, their children; Scott (Jennifer) Smet, Chad (Angie) Smet. Grandchildren; Cullan (Hannah) Smet, Logan Smet, Ben Smet, and Sam Smet. Her brother Lon (Lori) Fels, sister-in-law Neva Fels, nieces, nephews and beloved pet Fritz further survive.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents Leland and Adeline Fels, her sister Beverly (Ron) Kiekhaefer, brothers Lee Fels, Bruce Fels and Danny Fels, nieces Nancy Kiekhefer and Kay Peck, and beloved pet Charlie.

The family would like to thank the ICU Nurses and Doctors that cared for her at St. Vincent Hospital.

Family and friends may call at Faith Lutheran Church, 2335 South Webster Ave., Green Bay on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 9:00 AM, until time of service at 11:00 AM with Pastor Joshua Errer officiating. Entombment will take place at Allouez Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum.