Louise Victoria (Kozel) Smolic Passed Away August 25, 2003 Grandma was born to Peter and Francis Kozel on January 18, 1922 in Herminie, Pennsylvania. She was raised, along with her four brothers, in Chicago and often referred to herself as #Lou from Chi.# In 1942 she met Albert John Smolic, her husband of 51 years, who preceded her in death in 1995. Grandma and Grandpa were introduced by one of her brothers who served with Grandpa in the Army Air Corps. After a brief courtship and what Grandma knew was love at first sight, he was off to war. For nearly two years they corresponded through letters and one day Grandpa sent her not only a letter, but a ring! He told her that if she did not return the ring then he would assume that she had accepted his proposal. In the summer of 1944 Grandma left home and set out for Utah to meet her new family and her love. They were married on July 28, 1944. Albert and Louise settled in Lakewood, WA, where they made their home for 46 years. Together they raised five boys, have eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. My Grandmother was a beautiful, funny, kind, spiritual and selfless woman. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with her children, grandchildren and her pets. She always found the very best in EVERYONE. I know I am not alone when I say that the many lessons and even more laughs we shared will not be forgotten. Grandma, what an example you have been. Thank you for the back scratches, long talks, all the rides, advice, stories, my Dad, and the memories. You have left us with the very best of you. I#ll have my people call your people and we#ll do lunch again! Love, Tammy. The family would like to thank her doctor and the staff at St. Joseph Hospital, as Grandma said, #They are all so nice.# At her request, there will be no funeral, a private family interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements made by Piper- Morley Funeral Home. Pub Date: 8/29/2003 Tacoma News Tribune