passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025 at St. Joseph's Hillside Villa in West Point.
Loretta was born June 25, 1931 in Beemer to Frank and Eunice 'Benedict' Rall. She resided in Beemer until 1939 when the family moved to West Point. Loretta attended West Point Public School and graduated in 1948.
On November 23, 1948 she married William Smeal of Snyder at St. Mary's Catholic Church in West Point. After their marriage they moved to the Smeal farm northwest of Snyder. After residing there for 25 years they moved the family to Snyder.
Loretta was a member of St. Leo's Catholic Church where she served as a Guild Officer. She also served on the Library Committee and the Election Board for many years. She was also a member of the Christian Mothers, North Bend V.F.W. Auxiliary and was also very active in the Al-Anon program for many years. Square Dancing with her husband was her favorite activity.
Survivors include her children:
Cheryl (Richard) Kreikemeier of Snyder
John (Peggy) Smeal of Scribner
Michael (Gaye) Smeal of Snyder
Anita (John A.) Kreikemeier of North Bend
Thomas (Sally) Smeal of Snyder
Joyce (Albin) Janecek of South Sioux City
Joseph Smeal of Scribner
James Smeal of Fremont
Patrick (Monica) Smeal of Snyder
Beth (Glen) Schuetze of West Point
29 grandchildren (several step grandchildren)
61 great grandchildren
4 great great grandchildren
Sister - Wanda (Ray) Ernesti of West Point
Sister-in-law - Judy Rall
Loretta was preceded in death by her loving husband William 'Bill' Smeal in 2001. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Janelle Robart, grandson William P. Smeal, infant granddaughter, parents, in-laws 4 brothers, 3 brothers-in-law and 5 sisters-in-law.
The Funeral Mass will be 10am, Friday, April 11, 2025 at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Snyder. Burial will follow in St. Leo's Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Snyder Fire and Rescue or may be directed to the family. Visitation will be Thursday, from 4pm to 7pm with the family present from 5pm to 7pm all at the church. A rosary will be said at 7pm.
Ludvigsen's Scribner Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(5)
Sally Jakub
Elkhorn, NE Friday, April 11, 2025 Loretta and my Mom (Norma Schlickbernd but she passed in June of 2022) were room mates at the Villa for a couple of years. I always enjoyed visiting with Loretta when I would visit my Mom. Sorry to hear of her passing. Offering my sincere condolences the family.LaNette Redmon
Fremont, NE Thursday, April 10, 2025 To all the Smeal families and Ray and Wanda Ernesti,Heaven just got another angel and Loretta is with Bill, Janelle, and William. Bill and Loretta came into our lives at a good time and we had countless times of fun and laughter. We were there for each other in good and bad times. She was so sad when she learned my Jim passed away. Joyce brought her to Fremont and we had lunch together at the Dairy Queen. What a blessing for me! Jim always called Snyder Smealville. Oh, the wonderful food and fellowship and we enjoyed it all! I could go on and on. I know Jim was preparing a place for her and he will have a beautiful smile on his face when he sees her. I miss him so much and always will. LaNette
Barbara J Carr
Fremont, NE Wednesday, April 9, 2025 Loretta was a kind soul, with a beautiful smile. Her daughter Janelle and I worked together for many years.prayers of comfort the family.RIP LORETTABarb Carr
JANICE A RECEK
FREMONT, NE Wednesday, April 9, 2025 I have known Loretta for many, many years. She was a wonderful person and loved by many. She will be missed. She was also a good friend along with Bill, of my parents, Harold and Lill Bausch. Prayers and love to the familySue Heiman
Omaha, NE Tuesday, April 8, 2025 Loretta was such an inspiration to me. Loretta and Bill welcomed me into their fold and I will forever be grateful for all they helped me with. Fly high Loretta with my dear Janelle and Bill. Love and hugs to the family.