Maria S. Kalb, 68

SMYRNA - Maria S. Kalb of Smyrna was called home by God Saturday, June 2, 2007, from her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was 68.

Mrs. Kalb was born Aug. 26, 1938, in Teocaltiche, Mexico, daughter of the late Ezequiel and Alejandra Calderón.

She was very proud and thankful to become a U.S. citizen. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt who enjoyed spending time with her family. She was most notable for her ability to love unconditionally.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Roberto Calderón, who had lived in Mexico.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Franz "Sam" Kalb; four sons and three daughters-in-law, Samuel R. Kalb of Pike Creek, David F. and Barbara Kalb, and Erick A. and Marianne Kalb, all of Smyrna, and Jacob O. and Lorianne Kalb of Bear; two daughters and a son-in-law, Alejandra "Sandy" Barnett of Smyrna, and Victoria K. and Jim Carter of Middletown; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Herminia Tejeda of Mexico, and Juana and Chuck Chase of Kenton; a brother and a sister-in-law, Ezequiel and Oralia Calderón of Mexico; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call for a celebration of her life from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the Faries Funeral Chapel, 29 S. Main St., Smyrna.

Catholic services will be 11 a.m. Thursday in St. Polycarp"s Parish, Smyrna.

Burial will be in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear.