Verna Mae Schmitcke, 73, Bismarck, formerly of Garrison, died on Tuesday, May 15, at a Bismarck hospital. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 10:30 am at the First Congregational Church in Garrison. Burial will be at the Garrison City Cemetery in Garrison.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church.

Verna Mae Schmitcke was born on April 7, 1939 to Rudolph and Mary (Kleinsasser) Schmitcke in Garrison, ND. She entered this world full of energy and spunk that remained in her throughout her lifetime. Verna lived with her family for the first 32 years of her life where she was loved by all. Verna was the youngest of 7 children. In 1971, she moved to Grafton, ND and remained there until 1985, when she moved to Bismarck, ND. Verna was supported by Enable, Inc. services while residing in Bismarck.

Verna left us with so many memories; we would not be able to list them all. Some of the memorable moments include her love of polka music and encouraging all to join in. She would sit in her chair, clap her hands, wave her arms and stomp/dance with her legs and feet while telling everyone to, "Sing it!" Verna always knew when others were around (even when her vision began to decrease) as she would always remind them, "Say hi to me." She loved the holidays and always was aware of the next upcoming holiday and would share this with everyone. Verna usually had vivid language and entertaining stories for all. Verna especially had a place in her heart for all of her family members and would talk about them often. Verna loved visiting with her friends and support staff daily. Verna loved her German food (especially cheese buttons) along with her chicken.

Verna remained to have a positive attitude even in her ending days. The morning of her passing she was still insistent that she was "all better and ready to go home". That is the determination that will never be forgotten.
Verna is survived by sisters, Barbara Mickelson, Fargo, ND, Pearl Pressler, Stockton, CA, Clara Ellingson, Garrison, ND; brother, David (Marie) Schmitcke, Minot, ND; and many nieces and nephews, friends and support staff from Enable, Inc.

Verna was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Mary, sisters, Viola Fix and Ruth Schmitcke, brother, Edwin Schmitcke.

Written by a friend
We say goodbye to a lady that is like no other. A woman who enjoyed being the singer and dancer. Her little feet would just go. "Roll out the Barrel" would play and she would sing like she was having the best time ever. Clapping, we are to clap with her, as well as sing and dance. She liked to have a good time. She would sing the birthday song like it was hers, but at the end of the song was "Everybody!" Good times were had because she just wouldn't have it any other way. It's been quiet since her voice is not heard. Verna Mae Schmitcke, you are truly missed. Thank you for being part of our lives!