Schepp, Elizabeth

Elizabeth was the daughter of Frank Vincent and Agnes Bernadine (Hagen) Haen. She was born June 19, 1935 at the Haen Family Farm outside Renville, Minnesota. Elizabeth was one of six siblings who enjoyed growing up on their rural farm. She attended the Renville County Public School graduating from high school in 1953. Elizabeth then enrolled at St. Mary’s College in Rochester, MN where in 1956 she earned a BS in Nursing. In Nursing School, she met a lifelong friend Carol (Hammond) Schewei. On a trip to Carol’s home town of Little Chute WI, Elizabeth met her future husband Donald W. Schepp. Mr. Schepp soon left for the Korean War while Elizabeth and friend Carol spent a season nursing together in Yellow Stone National Park at Mammoth Hot Springs. Upon Donald’s conclusion of service, he reconnected with Elizabeth and they married on December 27, 1961. Initially the couple called Chicago home where Elizabeth worked for the Public Health Department administering prenatal care to women living in public housing. They moved to the warmer climes of Phoenix where she again worked for the Public Health Department and in other nursing capacities. During her lifetime Elizabeth volunteered with various charities including: LARC, Lura Turner Homes, St. Vincent DePaul and the Girl Scouts. She and Donald raised two children, Donna and Craig. Elizabeth enjoyed walking and was an avid recycler, often combining the two. During her walks she cherished a shady spot for a cup of coffee and a cigarette. Whether innate, her upbringing, or her walks through the cities of Phoenix and Tempe, Elizabeth had empathy for those who struggled. The 2:00 p.m. McDonald’s Coffee Gang brought her great joy and friendship. She adored her grandchildren and the new worlds they brought into hers. For three years, her great grandson brought a new sense of optimism. During the final years of Elizabeth’s life, as her mobility was limited, her granddaughter Nena was a great companion and friend. Elizabeth completed her life’s journey on September 23, 2017. We are grateful for the memories and wisdom she imparted.