Memorial

Ardyth Elayne Meline, 91, of Cedar Rapids, IA. a child of God, went home to Jesus on November 17, 2024.  A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1:30pm at Cottage Grove Place, 2115 1st Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  

Ardyth Elayne Smith, daughter of Orie and Josephine (Miller) Smith was born on March 17, 1933 on a farm near Plainview, Nebraska.  She graduated from Plainview High School and continued her education at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.  Ardyth received her Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics and began a teaching career. She married her soulmate Doug Meline on August 11, 1956.  The couple resided in Lincoln, Nebraska and subsequently moved to Urbana, Illinois where Doug completed post-graduate work.  In 1960, Ardyth and her family moved to Webster City, Iowa where Ardie assisted Doug in his position with Central Iowa Farm Business Association. They remained in Webster City throughout their married life.  Doug passed away in 2011. 

Ardyth, lovingly known as Ardie, was a long-time member of the Asbury United Methodist Church where she was active on many committees, in Adult Sunday School and with United Methodist Women. She was also an active member of PEO Chapter NR.  Ardyth enjoyed traveling with her husband and joined him on two international trips with the Farm Business Association as well as visiting nearly all 50 states.  Ardie moved to Cottage Grove in Cedar Rapids when Doug passed away. She has enjoyed her many friends, happily participating in all the activities. Ardie was a wonderful mother, grandma, great-grandma, sister and friend. She will be missed by all.

Ardie is survived by her children, a son Scott (Deb) Meline of Mason, Ohio; daughter, Ann (Lou) Stark of Avon Lake, OH; grandchildren Derek (Nicole) of Washington State, Brett Meline of Ohio, Elizabeth McCrea (Brian) of Ohio, and Will Stark of Pennsylvania; and brother Marvin Smith of Brunswick, Nebraska.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Doug; her parents; an infant son, Stephen; and a brother, Vernon Smith.  

The family wishes to express a sincere thank you to the Cottage Grove staff and residents for the love and care they have provided Ardie these past 13 years.  

Per her request, memorials may be directed to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Cottage Grove Foundation, Cedar Rapids.