Miriam J. Ehrenfeld (nee Smeltzer), age 99, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026. She was born on March 14, 1926, in Gary, Indiana, to the late Lloyd and Hertha Smeltzer.

Miriam was fiercely independent and devoted her life to caring for others. Her heart was big enough to take in children who were not her own and raise them as family. She took great pride in her home and yard, working tirelessly to keep everything in beautiful order. Miriam’s strength, generosity, and quiet determination were felt by everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her loving son, Richard (Susan) Ehrenfeld; daughters, Marsha (Paul) Gilman and Pam Tripp; nine grandchildren and great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Hans Koch; nephews, Craig (Sara) Van Atta, Kurt (Murph) Van Atta, Mark (Judy) Van Atta, and Kevin (Celeste) Over; and niece, Gretchen Over.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard J. Ehrenfeld; her dear companion, Sam Someson; and her daughter, Gail L. Koch.

Memorial contributions in Miriam's memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

Miriam will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Calumet Park Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.