On Saturday, July 26, 2025, Darlene Anne (Smith) Louks of Rome, Ohio passed away at age 64, surrounded by her loving family. Darlene was born to Ronald and Rachel Smith of Berwick, Maine and throughout her life was an avid and accomplished horsewoman.

Darlene graduated from Noble High School and the University of Southern Maine then had a seasoned career as an accountant for multiple healthcare organizations, most recently University Hospitals based in Cleveland, Ohio.

Darlene married Gary Louks, the love of her life in 1999 knowing him for many years prior. Darlene and Gary moved to Rome, Ohio where Horseshoe Lake Farm was born and grew to include multiple buildings, an indoor riding barn, and a pond that hosted many celebratory events over the years. Darlene loved her stepson Stephen and was so proud of his dedication to his son Landon. She so enjoyed being called Grandma.

In addition to her professional career, Darlene worked passionately to nurture the many horses within her charge, committing time to the necessary everyday tasks, expertly caring for expectant mares and newly born foals, and partnering with skilled Quarter Horse trainers from around the country. Her dedication was rewarded with many accomplishments, apparent from the rows of distinguished trophies and colorful ribbons that encircled every room in her home and barn. She and Gary were most proud of the fourteen World Championships won with several horses. In fact, Darlene recently mentioned that, of the many trips she took over the years, one of her favorites was to the American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show in Oklahoma City. Darlene embodied the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson when he wrote: "Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby, to be picked up and laid down like a game of solitaire. It is a grand passion."


Darlene was predeceased by her parents and brother, Dale Smith. She is survived by Gary, her husband of 26 years; son Stephen; grandson Landon; sister Brenda and her husband Patrick Gagne ; two nieces and five grandnieces and grandnephews. The family will hold a private service at a later date to celebrate Darlene's life.

Lake Erie Cremation and Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Road, Geneva, Ohio assisted the family with arrangements.

www.LakeErieCrematory.com