Carmen Ilah Smoke, age 68, passed away at Centrica Rose Arbor Place on April 3, 2026. She was born in Battle Creek, MI, on November 17, 1957, the daughter of the late Leo Smoke and Marjorie (Olson) Piper.

Carmen grew up in Climax, MI, graduating from Climax High School Class of 1975. She would remain a lifetime resident of Southwest Michigan. She worked for many years at Western Michigan University in food service. She later worked for several local restaurants in Galesburg, Augusta, Richland and Gull Lake. Her quick wit and sense of humor made her a fantastic waitress. She made several friends and regular customers. Carmen was always on the go and spent life making memories and new friends. After retirement she enjoyed making Diamond Art as gifts, going on trips and getaways to the casino. Her greatest joy came from making memories with her grandchildren. She was an involved grandmother and aunt who did her best to make each event special. Carmen’s smile, laughter and love will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by two loving daughters, Michelle (Mark) Scholten and Mindy (Nathaniel and Bradford) Spencer; grandchildren, Grace and Clare Scholten; siblings, Ellen Copeland, Avon Selby, Alan Selby, Carla (Bud) Erskine, Carol (Scott) Case, Garth (Lynette) Piper Jr., Gilbert (Tracey) Piper, Garland (Dee) Piper, Nan Lee (Mike) Palmatier; brother in law, Jerry Piper; several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was also preceded in passing by her granddaughter, Julia Delgadillo; sister, Linda Piper; stepfather, Garth Piper; in-laws, Tom Copeland, Sandy Selby, Jennifer Selby.