Barbara (Smits) Provus

Barbara Smits Provus passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023. Barbara
passed away peacefully in her home in Ithaca surrounded by her close
family and friends. She is survived by her husband Ronald Provus, her
children Kimberly and Michael Provus, and her grandchildren Matty and
Ayla Provus.

Barbara was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan to parents Harvey and
Lorraine Smits. Barbara met her husband Ronald while attending Michigan
State University. After they graduated, they moved to Chicago and over the
next 13 years they lived in 8 different cities for Ronald’s hotel management
and food service jobs. In 1980, with Ronald and her children Kimberly and
Michael, they moved to Indianapolis which became their home for the next
20 years. Barbara was a highly regarded and celebrated 6 th grade science
teacher at Northview Middle School. While teaching, she also earned her
master’s degree from Butler University in school counseling.

Barbara and Ronald moved to Ithaca, New York in 2000. Barbara continued
her mission to help children by teaching and counseling in Lansing Central
School District and Candor Central School District. Barbara was a devoted
wife, mother, and grandmother and was loved by all. She will be missed, but
in our memories, thoughts, and prayers forever. We love you!

Memorial Services will be held Sunday December 10th with Visitation from 11-11:30 am followed by a Service 11:30 am at
Bangs Funeral Home, 209 West Green Street, Ithaca, New York. Private burial service on Monday December 11th .

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barbara’s name to the Cancer
Resource Center in Ithaca, who supported Barbara so much over the last 5
½ years. Please visit www.crcfl.net/donate, check “Dedicate My Gift”, and
type Barbara’s name so the gift is in her honor.