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Orella A. Schmieg Obituary – 7/30/2010


Orella Alice Schmieg, age 93, of Cokato, went to be with the Lord Monday, July 30, 2010, surrounded by her family at the Cokato Manor.

She was born July 1, 1917, in Middleville Township, to Albert and Amelia (nee Streich) Luhman. Orella was baptized July 22, 1917, at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake by the Rev. A.L. Oetjen; and confirmed March 31, 1927, at the same church by the Rev. C. G. Seltz. Her confirmation verse, also her wedding service text, was Romans 1:16 (KJV): “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation, to everyone who believeth.”

Orella was united in marriage to Elmer Schmieg April 25, 1937, at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard Lake. They made their home on a farm southwest of Howard Lake, presently owned by their son, Harlan. Their 62 years of marriage were blessed by the birth of seven children.

Orella and Elmer farmed together for 51 years, until retiring in 1988, and moving to Howard Lake.

Elmer passed away in 1999, and Orella continued to live in her home until 2001. She spent the past six years in Cokato Manor.

Orella enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening, baking, and especially quilting. She made many World Relief quilts, and also quilts for all her children and grandchildren. She taught Sunday school for many years, and loved music and singing. Orella was happiest when she was giving and helping others, especially her family.

She is survived by her seven children: Gary (Ruth) of Cokato, Dale (Evelyn) of Howard Lake, Harlan of Howard Lake, Carolyn (Dane) Compton of Garfield, Merlyn (Karen) of Howard Lake, Mark (Barb) of Howard Lake, and Beverly (David) Allen of Howard Lake; 17 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Irene Lindahl; nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband, Elmer, Orella was preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Ricky Schmieg; a daughter-in-law, Judy Schmieg; two brothers, Alfred and Bernard Luhman; and two sisters, Edna Janneke and Leona Bakeberg.

Funeral services took place Tuesday, Aug. 3 at St. James Lutheran Church in Howard lake with the Rev. Martin Schoenfeld officiating. Luke Dahl served as organist, and special music was provided by David, Bev, and Cord Allen.

There was a prayer service Monday, Aug. 2 at 7 p.m.

Orella’s pallbearers were her eight grandsons, Michael Schmieg, Robert Schmieg, Paul Compton, Joel Compton, Jason Schmieg, Dan Schmieg, Tim Schmieg, and Cord Allen.

Arrangements were by the Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home.

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