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Doreen (Nielson) Schmitt
May 30, 1958 - Oct. 11, 2011
Doreen Schmitt passed away peacefully at home on October 11, 2011, following a courageous battle with Lung Cancer. She was born in Burlington, WA to Robert and Myrna Nielson on May 30, 1958.
Doreen was a lifelong resident of Stanwood, WA.
In high school she was involved in both social and leadership teams as well as cheerleading, track and field and drama. In 1974, she met the love of her life, Rick Schmitt, whom she later married. They had three children, Amy, Angie and Jacob.
After high school Doreen attended Northwest Academy of Hair Design in Mount Vernon, WA and worked as a hair stylist for 11 years in the Stanwood and Camano area.
Eager for a change, Doreen took a job at the law office of G. Brian Paxton in the 80's before landing a job with the Stanwood School District in 1994. She worked as the high school Athletic Department Secretary, a job that was perfect for her. While working at the school, Doreen served as the Cheerleading Advisor, was an officer on the Booster Club and could be found in the stands at every local sporting event.
Doreen retired from the school district in 2007 to focus on her battle with Lung Cancer.
Rick and Doreen truly enjoyed spending time together, often getting away for weekends to their vacation home in Desert Aire, on the Columbia River. They were committed to each other and encouraged their children to be just as committed to the things that they value.
Doreen was the "go-to-gal" amongst her circle of friends whether it be about cooking, parenting, creative advice or simply needing a good laugh. You always knew when Doreen had arrived because she brought a lot of energy to the room. She valued her many friends and often spoke of the selfless role they played in the last stages of her life.
During Doreen's five plus year bout with her illness, she inspired others beyond belief. Being a non-smoker, her "Dream Big" attitude and perseverance helped raise awareness and funding for a disease with such a negative stigma. Doreen will forever be the face of courage in the eyes of many.
Doreen was preceded in death by her husband, Rick in 2010.
She is survived by her children, Amy Schmitt of Seattle, WA, Angie (Shannon) Schmitt of Edmonds, WA and Jake (Megan) Schmitt of Mount Vernon; and her parents, Robert and Myrna Nielson of Stanwood; sister, Debby Nielson of Everett, WA; brother, Darren Nielson of Everett; father-in-law, Clarence Schmitt of Stanwood; sister-in-law, Vickie (Tom) Coward of Stanwood, and brother-in-law, Jeff (Dawn) Schmitt of Stanwood; and numerous uncles; aunts; cousins; nieces; and nephews. |
