Dee was born in St. Brieux, Saskatchewan, Canada. Moved to MN in 1955. Met Henry – marrying in 1956. Spending the ensuing years in the Minneapolis and Excelsior area, moving to Jordan in 1974. Dee loved to entertain, laugh, listen to music that had swing, dance and have fun…a lot of fun! Dee had a beautiful creative mind by sharing her culinary, musical, and artistic gifts. Loved antiquing & thrift shopping.
Speedskating was Dee’s sport. Stating “I loved to beat the boys” while growing up in Spruce Grove, Alberta. It was a joy watching her glide across the ice on Lotus Lake.
Christmas was her season! Beautifully entertaining & decorating our home. Worked at Schumacher’s Hotel gift shop, but also decorated the entire hotel which was featured in Better Homes and Gardens magazine.
Dee taught tole painting in Jordan Community Ed. from ’78-’84. Lovingly known as “Grandma Dee” to students and staff working as a Para for Jordan Elem. School, retiring in 2017. At the time, the oldest city employee.
Preceded in death by parents, Marie & Peter Schmitz; brother, Leo, and many other dear family members and friends.
Dee is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Henry. Four children: Richard; Mark (Carrie); Kerry (Mel); Jim (Jeff); 7 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Gen Weber and brothers, Ray and Bob Schmitz. Also survived by dear relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Dee’s Life will be held Saturday, February 10, 2024, from Noon – 3:00 PM with closing prayers by Fr. Michael Miller at 3:00 PM at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 104 1st St W, Jordan, MN 55352, 952-492-2818. Dee will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Patrick’s of Cedar Lake Catholic Church, Jordan or to donor’s choice. Family would like to thank the caring and loving staff at Community Assisted Living and St. Croix Hospice.
“Let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.”
