Louise was a loving and nurturing wife and mother. She worked for many years sharing her love of cooking with the residents of Ganado Nursing Home and later with all the students of Ganado ISD.

In her spare time, she could be found tending her garden and many plants, and enjoying nature. She was fond of birds and shared her love for the outdoors with her many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Louise is survived by her daughters Louise Smith (Carl), Irma Hardin (Stephen), Virginia Dodson, Loretta Macha (John), and son Donnie Vanek. She is also survived by her 14 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Louise is preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, one brother, and her loving husband Leo Vanek.

The family received visitors on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 9 a.m. at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, with the Rosary being recited at 9:30 a.m. Services followed with Father Greg Korenek officiating. Burial followed at Assumption Catholic Cemetery.

Services were entrusted to the Todish family of Ganado & Slavik Funeral Homes.