Gladys M Schmitz

Gladys M. Schmitz, 87 of La Crescent, MN, passed to eternal life on Sunday, April 7, 2013 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center surrounded by love, laughter and tears. She was born at home in New Hartford Township, MN, on October 11, 1925 to William and Martha (Frauenkron) Heyer. She graduated from eighth grade at New Hartford public school.

On June 4, 1941 she was united in marriage to Norbert Schmitz in Winona, MN. She and Norbert farmed their entire married life first in New Hartford and later moving to Nodine , MN, where they settled on Foster Ridge, south of town. In 1981 she and Norbert retired to La Crescent. Gladys was a a good cook, providing a place at their table for anyone who wanted a good meal and good conversation. She was a neighbor in the true sense of the word. Whether welcoming new arrivals or maintaining lifelong relationships the door was always open, the coffee pot always on and cookies in the jar.

Known for her sharp sense of humor, she made friends wherever she went. She was a hard working farm wife who will be missed.

Gladys is survived by her daughter Sally (Dr. Ed) Miner of La Crosse, Daughter in law Sherry Schmitz of Dakota, MN, grandsons Adam (Wendy Hoth-Puent) Frick of La Crosse, Alex (Kris) Frick of Dakota, great grandchildren Haley,Hunter and Hannah Frick and Karina Puent, three step granddaughters and five step great grandchildren, one sister Alice Gady of La Crescent , two brothers William (Dona) Heyer of Belvedere, IL, Donald (Bobbi) Heyer of Dakota, sisters in law Martha Hermanson of Burlington, WI, Irene Heyer of Onalaska and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Norbert in 2004, one son Dennis Schmitz in 1995, three sisters Anna (Clarence) Wenzel, Wilma (Robert) Halverson, Laura (Sidney) Rostad, two brothers, Edward (Arlene) Heyer and Marvin Heyer. She was further preceded in death by one step great grandson Zach Puent and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 11, 2013 at Prince Of Peace Lutheran Church in La Crescent. Pastor Michael Woods will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hiler Cemetery, Nodine. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday evening from 5 until 7 P.M. and again at the church on Thursday from 10 A.M. until the time of services. Memorials may be given to Hiler Cemetery Association, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Neighbors in Action or the doners charity of choice.