Nona May (Bockovich) Smith, 99, of Grand Marais, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at the North Shore Care Center on April 1, 2025.

Nona was born on April 24, 1925, to Theresa (Linnell) and Martin Bokovich in Grand Marais, Minnesota. Nona is a direct descendant of Robert Linnell, who came to America and established a home in Cape Cod in 1638. Nona is of the 12th generation of the Linnell family in America.

Nona graduated from Grand Marais High School in 1944. She then held many jobs in the service industry in Grand Marais and on the Gunflint Trail.

Nona married Melvin Smith on June 22, 1945, after he returned from World War ll. The couple had five children who describe their mother as dependable, hard-working, resourceful, encouraging, and patient.

Mom and Melvin built their own home and moved in on Christmas 1955.

Nona was an exemplary mother. She tended her vegetable and flower gardens and loved to pick berries of all kinds. She sewed clothing for her family, especially matching flannel pajamas at Christmas. She always kept her cookie jar full. Nona loved to go on hikes and picnics with her family. She showed up and supported her family in all things.

Nona’s interests included playing cards and board games, doing jigsaw puzzles, quilting and handiwork, bowling and watching sports, bird watching, and all things family.

Nona was a member of the First Congregational Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and Royal Neighbors of America. She enjoyed playing cards and socializing at the Senior Center.

Nona spent her last years living at the North Shore Care Center. Her family wishes to express appreciation for all the caregivers and people who touched her life during this time.

Nona’s life will be celebrated at the First Congregational Church at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025. All are welcome to join the family in celebrating Nona’s 100th birthday.

Nona is survived by a largeandlovingfamily:Sons Duane Smith (Carol) and Thomas Smith (Catherine), daughters Sally Suck, Margaret (Peggy) Paterson (Harry), Patricia (Patsy) Smith (Todd), brother: Richard Bockovich, sister Florence Bloomquist. Grandchildren: Tim Suck, Jeff Suck, Alisha Schroeder, Jessica Koenig, Chad Smith, Jeremy Peterson, Zachary Smith, Jared Smith, Justin Smith, Bethany Peterson, Evan Smith, Mariah Wilcox, Andy Peterson, Riordan Smith; 24 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Nona was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Melvin Smith, long-time friend Clifford Speck, son-in-law Stan Suck, grandson Rory Hunt and Bockovich siblings Hally, Gilbert, Nelda, Joan, Robert, and Bruce.