Linda Smrcka
Linda Smrcka, 39, a nurse in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) at University Hospital, died unexpectedly the evening of Jan. 31. After completing a 12-hour day shift, Linda was driving home when she stopped to assist at a rollover accident, and was struck by another vehicle.
Linda was married to Larry Smrcka, also a U-M employee. They have two sons, Wyatt and Emmett. Linda began her U-M career in 1989 in the animal tech labs and moved to the SICU as one of the first SICU technicians. She worked, married, had her children and attended nursing school, completing her RN degree in 1997. After graduation she stayed on and began her nursing career with U-M.
Linda was recognized as a skilled and compassionate caregiver; thorough in every aspect of care. She was quiet, unassuming and always striving to be a better nurse. Her smiles and laughter were infectious. Thank you Linda for touching our lives; your spirit and vigor for life fills the void in our hearts. She loved her work, she loved her family. We loved her.
—Submitted by staff at the U-M Hospital Surgical Intensive Care Unit
