Service Details
A private service will take place.
RACINE – Elizabeth Ann Smith-Posanke, 66, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, September 1, 2025.
She was born in Kenosha on December 10, 1958, the daughter of the late Richard E. Smith Sr. and Loretta (nee Fosbinder) (Smith) Alberts. She graduated from Tremper High School and attended UW-Whitewater, where she achieved honors on the dean’s list.
Beth married George P. Posanke, II, on June 9, 1987, in Hawaii. They resided in Laguna Beach, CA, Palm Springs, CA, Irvine, CA, Napa Valley, CA, and Las Vegas, NV. George preceded her in death on May 4, 2019. After his passing, Beth moved to Racine.
She worked as a tax preparer. After her retirement, she enjoyed working as a crossing guard.
She was an active advocate for animal welfare, as well as an avid art and book collector. She attended Racine Bible Church and had a passionate love of Our Lord, which she exhibited in every facet of her life.
Beth is survived by her step-father, Dale Alberts Sr.; her step-mother, Elizabeth (Carls) Smith; her sisters and brothers, Lorna J. Waldron, Dawn M. Smith, Richard E. Smith, Jr., Christine M. Smith, David A. Marnier, Brian J. (Vicky) Smith, Dale L. Alberts, II; her stepsons, George (Kayleen) Posanke, III, and Steven (Barbara) Posanke; her nephews and nieces, Lawrence, Michael, Lionel, Benjamin, Jeanna, Christopher, Carey, Steven, Michelle, David, Eric, Brandon, Maria, Paige, Sabrina, Kristi, Skyler, and Joshua; 26 great nieces and nephews and 18 great great nieces and nephews; as well as many extended family members and friends.
In addition to her husband, George, and her parents, Richard E. Smith, Sr. and Loretta Alberts, Beth was preceded in death by her sister, Diana L. Cross, and by her grandparents, Mathias and Margaret (nee Larsen) Fosbinder.
A private service will take place.
Lorna Jeanne (Smith) Waldron says
I’m sure you’re safely resting in God’s hands now. I’ll miss you but take comfort in knowing you’re at peace.
Dawn M. Smith says
My heart will never be the same. I love you little sister ❤️. Your earthly struggles are over now and you can rest peacefully in the arms of Our Lord. Give George a hug for me and lots of slobbery kisses to the kitties and puppies ❤️
Anonymous says
To all of my cousins,I am so sorry for the loss f your sister.Sending prayers and love. Cousin Debbie Bilotti Geurts
Teresa Bilotti Williquette says
My deepest sympathies for your family’s loss. Sending prayers to all.
Love, cousin Teresa.
Kathy Norris says
To all my cousins, thoughts and sympathy on the passing of Beth. Take comfort in knowing that God is good and love NEVER dies. Kathy(Smith) Norris
Ann Krulatz Rosmann says
Sending condolences to Rick and family. May the lifetime memories ease the sorrow you are feeling.
Dawn mintun says
Will miss my best friend Beth. I have many memories in las Vegas.. God has taken you home.
Debbi Forgianni says
Beth was a beautiful soul i met her many years ago thru her sisters she always was kind and very loving to everyone 💗 God bless you and may you rest in peace and to your family my deepest condolences 🙏
Sue Hagerstrom Gilbert says
I am so sorry for your loss. She is now with George, Her mom, Ila Jean, Bill and Garth.
gloria gallo says
Beth was such a bright light. My condolences to her family.