1938-2024
Norma Jane (Mohn) Schmidt, 85, of Hillsboro, Kansas, passed away on November 7, 2024, at Newton Medical Center. She was born on November 28, 1938, on her grandparents' farm outside Lincolnville, Kansas, and spent her childhood there, attending the one-room schoolhouse at USD 112 Hutchens School. From a young age, Norma loved nothing more than spending time in a tree with a good book, a habit that stayed with her throughout her life.
Norma was the daughter of the late Richard and Ella (Brown) Dick and was preceded in death by her late Husband Howard D. Schmidt. She is survived by her Siblings: Gaylord (Linda) Dick, Douglas (Debbie) Dick, and Michelle Kersten. And her children: Shari (Frank) Prescher of Chapman, Michael (Julie) Mohn of Abilene, Shawn Strunk of Abilene, and Erin (Anthony) Dilks of Hesston. She was also the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren: Jena (Zeth) Jones, Kyle (Cassie) Jones, Andrea Jones, Dustin (Stephanie) Strunk, Austin (Madison) Strunk, Brayden Mohn, Colby Mohn, and Dylan (Venessa) Dilks, Ethan Dilks, and Allison Dilks; as well as twenty great-grandchildren (including one on the way). Many cousins, nieces, nephews and those she treasured as family as well.
Norma married Calvin Mohn September 18th of 1955 in Hillsboro, Kansas. When they resided in Hillsboro, Kansas until Calvin was stationed throughout the country for military and his career. They were blessed with four children and raised them in Abilene, Kansas. Divorced in 1983.
Norma had a long and fulfilling career. For 27 years, she worked as a beautician in Abilene, Kansas, before making a career change in 1989. She completed her double master's degree at Kansas State University, then went on to teach with Marion County Special Education from 1989 until her retirement in 2000 from Hillsboro Middle School. After retiring, she devoted herself to spending time with her beloved
family and friends, whom she adored.
Norma met the love of her life, Howard Schmidt, and was married January 8th, 1994 in Hillsboro, Kansas. Along with Howard, Norma gained 4 more children, Teresa (Larry) Goodwin; Jeff (Lynette) Schmidt; Robert Schmidt, and Melissa Snesrud (Shad Winter); 19 Grandchildren and 33 Great Grandchildren. Howard preceded Norma in death this summer 2024.
Her life was rich in hobbies and passions. Norma was an avid quilter, knitter, photographer, and gardener, with a particular love for growing plants and tending to animals. She also enjoyed traveling to visit family across the country, including in Tennessee, California, and Texas.
Norma's community involvement continued even after moving to Schowalter Villa in 2015. There, she quickly became a valued part of the social scene, organizing March Madness brackets, hosting domino games, playing bingo and card games, and leading sewing and plant clubs. Her energy, kindness, and enthusiasm for life left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Norma is remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, whose positive spirit and caring nature touched the lives of many. Her legacy of hard work, generosity, and love for her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Amemorial service to celebrate her life will be held at Crossing Community Church, December 14th at 11:00 a.m. lunch following. Burial at Durham cemetery at 2 p.m.. Norma has requested in lieu of flowers all
memorials to go towards Crossing Community Church 620 Fairview Ave Newton Ks.
Norma's family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Schowalter Villa for the years of care. Good Shepherd Hospice and the Newton Medical Center for the compassionate care they provided during her final days. Online condolences at www.jostfuneralhome.com
Service/Mass
620 Fairview Ave.
Newton, KS 67114