Mary E. Smith Lipka, 85, of East Haven passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, July 17, 2017 after a long illness with her family by her side.  She was the beloved wife of 53 years to Robert Lipka Sr.  Mary was born in New Haven on March 27, 1932 and was the daughter of the late Bertie and Margaret Barnett Smith and granddaughter of the late Dwight and Ella Buttles.  She had worked as a Solderer for the former Sensor Engineering and later for Echlin Engineering for many years until her retirement.  After her retirement Mary became a nurse’s aide; was also a Sunday school teacher and enjoyed camping.  She was always willing to lend a helping hand or engage in a friendly conversation.  Mother of Cathy (Nino) Pedini, Ronald (Sharon) Lipka, Robin Lipka, Mark (Katherine) Lipka and Robert Lipka Jr. Also survived by nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.  Predeceased by her siblings Bertie, William, Winfield, John and James Smith. Special thanks to her daughter-in-law Kathy for her endless care and love.

Funeral services will be conducted in the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue Thursday morning at 10:00.  Interment will follow in the North Haven Center Cemetery. The visiting hours will be Wednesday from 4 to 8 pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 200 Executive Blvd., Suite 4B, Southington, CT 06489.