Obituary of Elizabeth Madelene Schmalenberg

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our loving Mother, Nana and Great Nana, Betty Schmalenberg on Friday, January 8, 2021 at the age of 95 years.

Betty is survived by:  her children, Judy (Bill Kuspira) and their children Kent (Brenda) Foster, Jana (Andrew) Kiemm, Todd (Giselle) Kuspira, Mark Kuspira, Shannon Kuspira (Peter Jackson); James (Shelley) Schmalenberg and their children, Jodi (Chad Christiansen), Greg (Kyla) Schmalenberg, and David (Michelle) Schmalenberg; Bob (Jan) Schmalenberg and their children, Tricia Schmalenberg (Matt Shewfelt) and Lisa (Pat) Saurette; Cheryl (Brant) Wheeler and their children Cameron and Daniel; her great-grandchildren, Kate, Liam, Emma(Curtis), Kohl, Max, Samuel, Piper, Ruby, Anya, Freddie, Josh, Gracie, Taylor, Rhyan, Ben, Diem, Scarlett, Nathan, Amy, Zoé, Kami, and Marcus; her brother Jim Simes; her sister Floydey Woolley; her sister-in-law Dorothy Simes; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty was predeceased by:  her husband Richard; her parents, Wesley and Katie; her son-in- law Allan; her siblings Lawrence, Marie, Leonard, Bill, and Kelly; her sisters-in-law Francis, Jessie, Sonia and Bea; her brothers-in-law Lindy and Don.

Nana was extremely proud of her family and always referred to them as her greatest accomplishment.  The cabin at Crystal Lake was “home” for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren over the summer.  Such an amazing spot for the entire family to come together and spend quality time with each other.

At the age of 53 Nana went back to school to become a Registered Nurse.  Not only did she graduate an RN but she was valedictorian of her class.  Such an amazing accomplishment!  Her family was so very proud of her.  Nana’s nursing journey took her to the Pasqua hospital where she worked on the Psychiatric Ward until she was 67.

Dear Nana was fondly referred to as the matriarch of the family.  Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were everything to her!  Her love of family, fierce independence and strong work ethic made her the master of her own destiny.  You are loved Mom, Nana, Great Nana!

Betty’s wishes are to have a family party to celebrate her life by sharing stories and memories.  This celebration will occur at a later date.