Emma “Mae” was born on Tuesday, February 12, 1929, in Walkerton. After a difficult early life, she moved to Chesley at the age of nine and became the only child of Mike and Mabel Dieter. Mae attended public and high school in Chesley and often said she had a good life there. After completing her formal education, Mae worked a variety of jobs until she married.
During this period, Mae was good friends with the Smith girls, who had a brother enlisted in the military, Ross Smith. Mae began writing him letters, as he was stationed in Halifax, and as they say, the rest is history. Upon Ross’ return, the two began dating, and were eventually married on Saturday, June 5, 1948, at St, Mark’s Lutheran Church parsonage. Together, they called Chesley home, and Ross worked at the Chesley Chair Factory. The Smith family soon began to grow with the arrival of Linda in 1950, followed by John (1952), James (1958), and Scott (1963). Mae thrived as a mother, caregiver, and provider for her young family. Their needs were always met, and Mae enjoyed spending quality time with all her children through their early years.
Once the children were enrolled in school, Mae returned to the workforce and took a job working for Jean Fenton at Steadman’s. She enjoyed the opportunity to help people and thrived in her position. She remained in this role for the next two decades, retiring in the early 90’s, in her early 60’s. Sadly, this was a period when Ross’ health began to decline. He suffered from chronic health issues, and Mae was very much his care provider at home. Unfortunately, his health challenges became too much for her, and he called Parkview Manor home for the last few years of his life. However, in true Mae fashion, she was there daily and volunteered her time helping other residents, especially her mother, Mabel. Ross died in 1994.
Mae devoted her life to service. Her first priority was always her family, but she gave of herself in many other ways. She was an active member of the Women’s Institute, Chesley Horticultural Society, Chesley Agricultural Society, and Orange Lodge. Given Ross’ service, together they were both active in the Chesley Legion (Br. #144). Mae also served on the Legion Ladies Auxiliary for 65 + years, holding the role of secretary for all of that time and assisting with everything and anything. She remained very involved well into her 90’s. Mae was also very active within her church, St. Mark’s Lutheran. She basically held every volunteer position at some point during her life, spending multiple terms on church council. If there was a void or a position that needed to be filled, Mae was there and willing to do whatever she could to fill the role. She taught Sunday School for over twenty years, from Linda’s early years to Scott’s confirmation.
When enjoying downtime at home, Mae always remained busy. She was a huge craft fanatic. I am told there was little she didn’t try when it came to crafting, and she usually excelled. Mae was a regular at the local fall fairs and a regular craft champion. She devoted countless hours to knitting and crocheting, creating countless masterpieces and collectables. She was crocheting as recently as the week before she died, always looking to share her gifts and creativity with others. She loved her flowers and gardening, and was always involved with the extracurricular activities at the Legion. Mae loved her cards, particularly euchre, cribbage, and darts and was competing in Legion competitions until very recently. She was also an avid reader and romantic. She thoroughly enjoyed anything written by Danielle Steele, as well as a variety of Amish and Mennonite novels and anything about the Royal family.
Mae enjoyed a good adventure. She experienced an Alaskan cruise with family, saw the East Coast, and enjoyed several bus trips with friends. Back at home, when not reading or crafting, she could be found watching old TV shows, like Little House on the Prairie, or a Hallmark movie.
Mae loved her family dearly and was very family oriented. She was selfless, generous and kind, always giving of her time and talents. Mae was a petite, quiet, and unassuming woman, but if she was tasked with a job – she got it done! One of her favourite sayings was, “Hard work never killed anyone.” She encouraged her kids and grandchildren to pursue their educations, as it was always important to her. She also expected honesty. Mae loved spending quality time with her grandchildren and, more recently, her great-grandchildren, and treasured holiday gatherings when everyone was together. She lived a long, beautiful life, giving so much of herself to everyone around her. She will be missed. Thankfully, Mae will live on through all of us, in our stories, remembrances and photographs.
In recent months, Mae’s health began to fail her, and she passed away surrounded by her loving family at South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Chesley, on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in her 97th year.
Beloved mother of Linda (Alan) Bluhm of Grand Bend, John Smith of Renfrew, Jim (Jackie) Smith of Orono, and Scott Smith (Della ) of Kitchener. Cherished grandmother of Melanie, (Chris), Cory (Tara), Ryan, Deanna, Amy (George), Jake (Kristie), Brendon (Maxime), Bronte (Tristin), and great-grandmother of Aidan, Addison, Grayson, Nolan, Mazie, Liam, Kate, Matthew, Luke, and Molly. Mae was predeceased by her husband, Ross, and her parents, Mike and Mabel Dieter.
Visitation will be held at Rhody Family Funeral Home, Chesley on Sunday from 6 – 8 p.m. A Royal Canadian Legion Branch #144 Auxiliary service will be held at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon at 5:45 p.m. A funeral service honouring Mae’s life will be held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Chesley on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Interment in Chesley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church or Chesley Hospital Foundation would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
My condolences to the entire family, especially Jim. Mae was a kind and generous of spirit, a great lady. May your treasured memories comfort you at this time. Your loss is heaven’s gain.
My deepest sympathy to Mae’s family. I knew Mae through the Louise WI she was always helping & staying so active at her age which I admired. Some days she made me tired & I was a lot younger about 1/2 her age ! Sorry I could not be there for visitation.
Mae will be missed as we always enjoyed playing sports with her RIP
Mae the busiest lady and condolence’s to the family
On behalf of Branch# 6, Owen Sound Ladies Auxiliary our deepest condolences to the family of Mae Smith and her Ladies Auxiliary Family. May your memories bring a smile to your face and comfort you at this time.
Our sincere sympathy to the Smith family, your mom was a beautiful lady and will be missed. Hold close to your memories.
So sorry about the loss of your Mom. My sincerest sympathy. As kids we spent a lot of time at your house, She was always welcoming. My thoughts are with you all.
Our sincere sympathy to Maes’ family, she was a great lady. Rest in Peace.
My memories of Mae: Kind. Caring. Generous, of her time and of her spirit. Supportive. Genuinely proud of all of her children and grandchildren. When I met up with her at a function, her eyes would totally light up as she spoke of Brendon and Bronte. Our hearts go out to your family. ❤️
Sending my condolences to the Smith family. .Your was mother was a very very busy individual.
RIP Mae
Linda, Al and all of Mae’s family- our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Your mom/grandma/great grandma was truly a remarkable woman, and we know she will be dearly missed by her loving family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Jim, Jackie, Ryan, Deanna and the Smith Families, I was so very sorry to read of the passing of your Mom and Grandma, at a wonderful age! I had an opportunity to visit, briefly, in Walkerton a few years back, and it was wonderful to catch up on some of the family happenings. Mae was a wonderful volunteer and a busy woman over the years, and deserves a peaceful rest. I am thinking of you all. ~ Sharon Teeple
Linda & Alan, and all Mae’s family & Friends;
Our sincere sympathy in the loss of your dear Mother. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers at this time. My Mom, Marilyn wishes to extend her sympathy as well.
Mark & Julie Heimrich, Sarah, Scott & Spencer, and Marilyn Heimrich
Thinking of you all and sending our condolences. Although it is a sad time, Mae was clearly an amazing woman! What a well lived life!
Deepest condolences to the Smith family
Our sincere sympathies to the whole family. Mae was a very special lady and we loved her dearly. ❤️
You have my heartfelt sympathy for your mom’s loss.
You’ll be in my thoughts throughout this difficult time.
Sorry to hear of the .loss of your mother
Linda & Family, Thinking of you all at this sad time. Hang tight on to all the happy memories which will hold her close in your hearts always.
Freddie
Linda and family, thinking of you all at this sad time. Hang on to all the happy memories which will keep your mother/grandmother always close.
Alfrieda Swainston (Freddie)
Mae was such an amazing woman! It was a privilege to know her and call her a friend. Sincere sympathy to all the family.
Our sincere condolences to Mae’s family. We knew Mae through her Legion connection with Ella, and also with her dedicated presence on the Chesley Ministerial. She was an inspiration and blessing to many. So sorry for your loss.
To Linda and Al and family
So sorry about the loss of your mother. We never met your mom, but you spoke highly of her.
We read the obituary she was a great person all around. She is in a better place know.
Love
Phil and Judy Craig
Mae was such a special person who enjoyed life. I am so glad I got to know her and will truly miss her. RIP
My deepest condolences… Mae was a beautiful woman … She will be missed 🤗
My deepest condolences
My condolences on the loss of your wonderful mother. Linda, John. Jim and Scott I remember your mom fondly and send my best wishes to you and your families.
We extend our deepest sympathy to Mae’s family, she was my mom’s oldest friend and they shared so many great times over the years, with so many things in common, Legion activities, crafts etc. The past few years, when it was harder to get together, they would talk on the phone and catch up. Last Saturday my daughter and I took Marie to visit Mae, and they both said their good byes and Mae thanked us for bringing mom to see her, we felt blessed that these 2 ladies had the chance to say good bye to each other. Remember the good times, Mae will be dealing missed by all the people she touched over her lifetime.
Our condolences to Mae’s family she was a good friend to many, She was always looking out for Betty when they lived next to each other, such a kind person, Keep your memories close and share them with others. She will certainly be missed.
So sorry to hear of maes passing. Thinking of u all at this difficult time.
My greatest condolences to all of the family. Mae was one of mom’s closest friends and they enjoyed many hours together with the legion auxiliary, their own pew at St. Marks and lots of social time visiting with Bea and Jean. I have always admired and in awe of Mae’s crafts and still have one of her towels on my oven, fondly it reminds me of her. Mae was always so kind and I truly enjoyed those hugs I received whenever I ran into her. She was such an amazing woman, she will be missed by family and community.
My condolences to the families.l am the president of the Hanover branch 130 L.A.
Chesley has lost an icon. Mae held a very special place in my heart. She taught me a great deal about family, community, faith, love and life. Her dedication to volunteerism was second to none. She was a quiet leader who remained nonjudgmental in every situation. She will be missed by many. Her family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. RIP Mae.
My sincere condolences to all Mae’s families and friends. She was a sweet and kind lady!
Sending love, strength and hugs to get through the next couple of days. Our condolences 💐
To all of Mae’s family. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Treasurer the memories!!
She was a wonderful Lady and she will be missed by so many.
I knew her through the Ladies Auxiliary for about 40 years. Such a dedicated Lady in whatever she did, from church and the Royal Canadian Legion and the Ladies Auxiliary.
Our sincere condolences, Brian and Marg Smith
My condolences
Treasure the memories ❤️
To Linda, Al & the entire Smith family – we send sincere condolences. Mae was ‘one of a kind’ and will definitely be missed throughout Chesley & surrounding area and in particular at Branch #144.
Keeping you in our thoughts.
Our condolences of such a nice lady .
Herb Dawdy and Catherine.
Scott and Della,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your Mom. May you carry all your special moments and cherished memories in your heart today and always!
Mae was a great neighbours and friend. Condolences to the entire Smith family
We wish to acknowledge Mae’s many years of service to the Chesley and District Ministerial Association. Given the range of Mae’s activities, we shall hear much of service in the days ahead. In the months to come, we shall realise how much we miss her.
Mae was a great neighbour and always enjoyed her presence . She will be missed greatly. A forever friend.
Getting to know Mae was an everlasting privilege. Condolences to all of Mae’s family. She was a gem of a person who gave so much to her community – our beautiful little town of Chesley. I will miss her.
So sorry for your loss I remember Mae when I was a kid in town she was such a gentle lovely lady 🩷