Loraine Marie Smith, 78, of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully in her home on January 15, 2025. She was born July 8, 1946 in Denver, Colorado to Leroy H. Bauer and Florence L. Bauer (née Koldeway). She was the second of four children.  She was raised in Englewood, Colorado, alongside her siblings Loretta, Ron, and Kathy. She loved to share fond family memories from her youth and especially good times from the Koldeway Farm.

Loraine worked a variety of jobs during her 20s and early 30s before becoming a dedicated homemaker. Loraine was married to Bob Smith for 20 years, and raised her children with love, care, and devotion.

Throughout her life, she found fulfillment in many things. A passionate gardener, Loraine had a special love for plants—especially tomatoes and flowers of all kinds. Her green thumb was legendary among neighbors, friends, and family.

She had a deep affection for and connection with animals and enjoyed the companionship of many pets throughout her life. In retirement, she enjoyed volunteering her time at a local animal shelter. Another cause close to her heart was preschool and early childhood education.

Above all, she treasured her role as a mother and, especially, grandmother. Her frequent visits and video calls created lasting memories with Connor, Caitlin, and Emma.

She is survived by her sisters Loretta and Kathy, as well as her children, Matthew and Mandy, and her cherished grandchildren, Connor, Caitlin, and Emma. In recent years, Loraine connected with Rich Morrow, a biological son she had placed for adoption in 1970. Their relationship brought her a lot of joy. Loraine was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy, who passed in 1992, and Florence, who passed in 2005, as well as her brother Ron, who passed in 2021.

Loraine's family invites friends and loved ones to join in a celebration of her life, which will be held on February 1, 2025, in Englewood, Colorado. Additional details will be provided in the coming days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to the MaxFund Animal Adoption Center or Rocky Mountain PBS , both of which were close to Loraine's heart.