Margaret ‘Marge’ Clara Schmidt

Marge was born on March 17, 1933, to Edward and Maria (Schutz) Kraft in Beulah, North Dakota. Marge was the youngest of seven children. Her parents moved to the St. Xavier, Montana area, where Marge grew up and attended school.

While attending confirmation, Marge met the man who would become her husband: Albert "Al" Schmidt. They were married on Nov. 21, 1950.

In 1955, the Schmidts moved to Billings, where Marge worked in retail sales for many years. Some of her employers included: Juro's Pharmacy, Motor View Drive In Theater and Hennessey's. In 1983, Marge and Al purchased Debs Dancewear and Uniforms. The store became her pride and joy, second only to her grandchildren. Marge loved "her" customers and "her" store so much that she continued to work until after her 83rd birthday.

Marge passed away on Aug. 28, 2017, at Tender Nest Assisted Living.

Marge was preceded in death by her husband, Al, of 49 years; four brothers, Martin, John, Traugott, Gottlieb; and one sister, Mary. Also preceding her in death were her daughter-in-law Sheila Schmidt and grandson Eric Rude.

Marge is survived by her sister, Kathryn Muhlbeier; her daughter, Susan (Douglas) Rude; son Dennis (Rhonda) Schmidt; grandchildren, Kristin Rude, Justin (Nicole) Schmidt; great-grandchildren, Rah Rude, and Emerie and Breelyn Schmidt; many nieces and nephews; and her special friend and companion, Gene Grande.

Marge was always kind, and her gentle heart touched the lives of many. She will be missed daily and deeply. Donations in her memory may be made to Pilgrim Congregational Church or the charity of your choice.

The family extends a special thank you to Tender Nest and Compassus Hospice for their loving care.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1, at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 409 S. 36th St.