Jennie Smilanich

Many characteristics make up the lives of many great people, but those derived from the heart are the qualities that leave a forever imprint on the hearts of others, and Jennie Smilanich was such a woman. With ways all her own, she lovingly gave true, unconditional love to everyone she knew. Jennie lived her life to help others, and making them smile brought her the greatest joy. Anyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting her knows what an extraordinarily sweet and amazing woman she was. For these things and so much more, she will be deeply missed.

Jennie's story began in 1926 as the end of winter was making its way towards the new beginnings of spring in Hibbing, Minnesota. An exciting time in the U.S., the heyday of the Roaring Twenties brought forth the sounds of the big bands and Prohibition was law of the land. Major U.S. manufacturers were implementing the beginning of the eight hour, five day work week, and factory towns were flourishing. On March 8 of that year, Joseph and Caroline (Turk) Kern celebrated the birth of their little girl, Jennie Rose into their arms.

Making their home in the village of Hibbing, Minnesota, known as the Grand Canyon of the North with the world's largest iron ore mine, Jennie's father was one of many hard working miners in town. Her mother, a homemaker, remained at home with Jennie, the second of four children. After her father sadly passed away, her stepfather, Stanley Fink became a very important person in her life. He also worked the mines, and in time her family welcomed three more children into their home. Stanley Fink took Jennie and her four siblings on as his own, and together with her mother raised them to be respectful, loving and honorable individuals.

In the latter part of the decade and well into the new, life became a challenge for many the world over. The Great Depression brought times of struggle, and Jennie's family was no exception. Even in the midst of these days of hardship, Jennie grew up enjoying a typical childhood for the times, filled with adventure and friends. She attended the local schools and before long grew into a lovely young woman with dreams for the future.

One of Jennie's dreams was realized on May 25, 1946 when she married Robert “Bowser” Smilanich. Together they welcomed the blessing of four wonderful children into their lives with the births of Debbie, Bobby, Deril and Ronnie. Jennie was impeccably "perfect" and was the best wife and mother. She made a good home for Robert and the children, and stood behind them in all they did.

In 1959, Jennie, Robert and their four children moved to the Kalamazoo area of Michigan where they opened Bimbo's Pizza and Bowsers Nightclub. Jennie was affectionately known as Mrs. Bimbo's Pizza. While in Kalamazoo, Jennie gave birth to her fifth child, Mark, who added much joy to their lives. Very much a lady, Jennie won the hearts of many. She found the good in everyone, and was a peacemaker in every respect. Jennie was one who could be counted on to give sound advice, offer a listening ear, and a shoulder to cry on if needed. After her first four children were grown with lives of their own, Jennie, Robert and Mark moved back to Minnesota.

Jennie always looked forward to visits from her children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family and friends. She delighted in her many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Throughout the years many fond memories were made sitting around her kitchen table for hours drinking coffee, and savoring the delicious food she would especially prepare. Some of her family favorites included pork chops and fried potatoes, sour potatoes, spaghetti and meatballs, scotcharoo bars and her amazing pink cookies. Jennie was also known for her Slovenian dishes, including sarmas and poticas.

In time, Jennie experienced the declining health of her beloved husband, and was there by his side until the very end of his life here on earth. With the support of family and friends, she was comforted. When her own health began to falter, Jennie moved back to Kalamazoo in 2008 to live with her daughter, Debbie. Along with many other caregivers, Debbie lovingly cared for Jennie and made the last of her days as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Throughout it all, Jennie remained the sweet lady that she was. Above all, her love abounded.

Jennie Smilanich was an amazing woman with a huge heart who took great pride in raising her children and spending time with her grandchildren. Jennie gave unconditionally from the heart to all who enjoyed her company. With a sweet nature, she freely gave of her time and talents, and her giving spirit towards helping others always brought out a smile. Although she will be deeply missed, the memory of Jennie will live on in the hearts of many.

On Wednesday, November 27, 2013 Jennie peacefully went from the arms of her daughter Debbie into the arms of Jesus, with her son Bobby and dog Dollie also at her side. Jennie was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bowser” Smilanich on January 7, 1989; her parents; three siblings: Caroline (Kern) Bolt, Florence (Kern) Casey, Joseph Kern; and great-granddaughter, Grace Town. Jennie is survived by her three siblings: Francie (Fink) Calliguri, Marion (Fink) Shevich and Stanley Fink. She is also survived by her five children: Debbie, Bobby, Mark, Deryl (Tom) and Ron (Sue), as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On Monday, December 2, 2013 at 3:00 PM, a Memorial Service will be held at the Life Story Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage (269-344-5600). A private service will be held for Ron and Deryl's families this weekend. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Hibbing, MN on Thursday, December 5, 2013 at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior. She will then be laid to rest next to her husband, Robert “Bowser.”

Please visit Jennie’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her guestbook and share a memory. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in honor of Jennie to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, Alzheimer’s Association, and/or the National Parkinson Foundation.