Karin Neset Smith

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karin Neset Smith, who passed away peacefully in Salem, Oregon, on March 13, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on October 3, 1947, in Munich, Germany, Karin moved to the United States and became a US citizen in 1976.

She married William N Smith, and they were married for 51 years. She leaves behind her husband, Bill, her daughter Kerstin Ilg (Jim), her brother, Dieter Neset (Gudrun), her nieces, Nadine Ritcher (Simon) and Larissa Neset, as well as an extended family of three stepdaughters, Tanya Rhodes, Gwen Deane and Bonnie Hauck, 17 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. She is in death by her parents, Heinz and Hildagard Neset, her stepson, David Jonas and granddaughter, Hannah Jonas.

Karin was an accomplished individual who earned a Master's Degree from the University of Oregon and was a dedicated employee for the City of Eugene.

Outside of her work, Karin thoroughly enjoyed expressing her creative talent and love for the arts. She was an avid painter and the photographer at every family event. She found joy in quilting and card making with her friends. She was very involved in investigating her family genealogy and helped others find their family roots. Being hard of hearing herself, she was a strong advocate for Hard of Hearing Association. Her quality of life was greatly improved as the recipient of one of the early models of a cochlear implant, which allowed her to hear her grandchildren’s voices!

Her creativity and talent touched many lives, and her artwork and pictures continue to be treasured by her family. Karin will be remembered for her kind heart and dedication to her family.

A private memorial service will be held in her honor. A celebration of her life will be planned in the summer.