Obituary of Bernardine Ann Smith

Bernardine (Bernie) Ann Smith (nee Ratajczak) passed away on August 5, 2022 in Venice, Fl. at the age of 95. She was born June 26, 1927 to George and Elizabeth Ratajczak in Plains, Pa. She attended Plains High School, where she met her future husband George F. Smith, Capt, USN Retired. They were married on December 27, 1948 and started their great adventure. Being the wife of a Navy pilot meant moving to a new base about every 2 years. One of their highlights was being stationed in Athens, Greece in the early 1960’s when her husband was the assistant Attache and then again in the mid 1970’s when he was the Defense Attache at the US Embassy. After 30 years in the Navy, they eventually retired in Venice, Fl. They loved living in Venice where they continued to meet new friends, took some amazing trips and really enjoyed life.

Bernie always said that she had a life more amazing than she ever could have imagined; from the life-long friends she made, the wonderful places she got to live, but the best was being able to spend time with her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her love of life, family & friends.

Bernie is predeceased by her parents George and Elizabeth Ratajczak and husband George Smith.

She is survived by her daughter Kay VanDerLeest, grandson Morgan VanDerLeest, granddaughter Emma Music, great-granddaughters Ryleigh and Blake VanDerLeest, her brother Larry Ratajczak, niece Gail Zizik and nephews Douglas Taylor and Dean Ratajczak.

A funeral service will be held on August 18 at 10:00 am at Epiphany Cathedral, Venice, Fl. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Burial services will be held at a future date at Arlington National Cemetery.