Gwen Sue Schmitz

Gwendolyne “Gwen” Sue Schmitz, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at her home. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date to honor Gwen. Memorials may be directed to the family in her memory.

Gwen was born on November 30, 1953, to William “Bill” and Helen (Widdrington) Jones. She grew up in Mason City, where she graduated from Mason City High School with the Class of 1972. Continuing her education, she earned her Licensed Practical Nursing degree at Anoka Tech, followed by her Registered Nursing degree at Ellsworth Community College. She later completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychology, from Buena Vista College. Her career led her to work in nursing homes and at Mercy Medical Center, where she found great fulfillment in caring for others until her retirement.

While at Roller City skating rink, Gwen met the love of her life, Dennis Schmitz. The two were united in marriage on September 30, 1972, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rockwell, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with two children. Gwen’s life revolved around her family, and she cherished her role as “Gigi” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gwen was known for her love of gathering with friends and family. She enjoyed reconnecting with her high school classmates, participating in the Mercy Mixers Bowling League, and playing poker with family—always letting out a quick “WooHoo!” when she won, as if it were a surprise. She also loved playing 500 and planning family dinners.

A true sun-seeker, Gwen adored the beach and was always ready for a pool day, her beach bag packed and waiting for the next adventure with her grandkids! Some of her fondest memories were spent at her sister’s pool in Minnesota or soaking up the sun at the beach with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Recently, she found great joy in cheering on Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Indian Fever. Gwen’s kindness, humor, and love for her family will be deeply missed.

Gwen is survived by her husband of 53 years Dennis Schmitz; daughter, Laura (Mike) Schilling; son, Dale (April) Schmitz; grandchildren, Michaela (Adam) Miller, Bailee Schilling, Cade Schilling, Hunter Bruns, Cale Schmitz and Jackson Schmitz; great-grandchildren, Lila & Henry Miller and Karter Smith; sisters, Beverly Davis and Shirley Jones.

She is preceded in death by her special grandmother Della Widdrington; her parents William “Bill” and Helen Jones, mother and father-in-law, Dale and Virginia Schmitz; brothers, Ronald and Larry Jones.

Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel is in charge of arrangements.