Marie Rawlins died Dec. 22, 2007, one day after her 99th birthday, at Josephine Sunset Home in Stanwood, Wash. She was born Dec. 21, 1908, near Ruso, N.D., to Carl and Johanna Schmidt, the fifth of eight children. Marie attended Velva State Agricultural High School while working for her room and board, then trained as a registered nurse in Minot, N.D. Receiving her RNs cap in 1934 was a proud day in her life. She married longtime friend and neighbor, Delbert Rawlins in 1935.
Marie was known for her hospitality. No one ever went away hungry, and they usually carried along some of her home-canned produce or her baked goods. To her grandchildren, Grannies butterhorns were legendary. They have happy memories of the creative fun she made for them.
Marie was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers and sisters; her husband of 63 years; her youngest son, David; and grandson, Byron Wheatley.
She is survived by her sister, Ella Martinson, of Kongsberg, N.D.; daughters, Joan Husby (Hank), Lois Drake (Jim), Patty Wheatley; son, Bill Rawlins (Mary); daughter-in-law, Joy Rawlins; grandchildren, Tami Nichols, Mike Rawlins, Diane Drake Gore, Rob Biggar, Mary Arthur, Heather Brown, Stacy McCredy, Lenora Anderson, Eric Wheatley, Heidi Mooring, Delbert C. Rawlins, and Tom Rawlins; and thirteen great-grandchildren.
The family extends their gratitude to the many loving caregivers who helped with her care from 1998 to the present.
A memorial service and reception will be held at 1 p.m., Jan. 12, 2008, at Word of Life Lutheran Brethren Church, 9028 51st Ave NE, Marysville.
Donations may be given to a favorite charity or to Josephine Sunset Home.