Schmit, Darlene Ann

Darlene Ann Schmit, 77, of Cedar Rapids, passed away after a long illness at Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids, on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009. Private services will be held at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Entombment: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Darlene was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on Dec. 17, 1931, to James (Mickey) and Mae Baxter Hennessey. Darlene graduated from Senior High School in Spokane, Wash. Afterward, she attended Spokane Business College. Darlene's employment history included working as a dental assistant for Dr. Locker, a telephone operator for Northwestern Bell and a hostess for Murdoch Funeral Home. Her greatest job was that of a homemaker, caring for her family.

Darlene was married on Aug. 9, 1952, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dubuque, to her one true love and soul mate, Dr. G.L. Schmit and was happily married for over 57 years. Darlene was a devoted wife and a loving mother to seven children.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Dr. G.L. Schmit of Cedar Rapids; and her seven children, Laura Tarket and husband Steven of Battle Ground, Wash., Mike Schmit of Loveland, Colo., Cathy Schmit Hoover and husband Joseph of Loveland, Colo., Anne Staton and husband Lindsay of Keystone, James Schmit and wife Kim of Corona, Calif., Linda Williams of Cedar Rapids, and Robert Schmit and wife Lori of Cedar Rapids; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; as well as her beloved Yorkshire terrier, Gypsy.

She was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Johnny Williams; younger brother, James; and younger sister, Betty.

Darlene and her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who had the opportunity to know her. Darlene will be forever remembered as a devoted wife and loving mother with a strong will and sense of determination.

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