Lona Mae (Pierce) Schuett, 84, of Grand Forks, ND, and formerly of Crookston, passed away Monday afternoon, January 22, 2024, in Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, with her loving family at her side.
Lona was born in Crookston on November 2, 1939, the daughter of Leon and Bertha (Veenstra) Pierce. She grew up in the family home north of Crookston and graduated from Central High School with the Class of 1957. In 1959 she married Bill Francis and they were blessed by the birth of daughter, Kim. In 1972 Lona earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Bemidji (MN) State College and in 1987 a Master’s degree from Bemidji State University. Professionally, she worked in insurance roles, taught business courses, and owned Stylistics Hair Salon in East Grand Forks, MN. Lona was united in marriage to Howard George Schuett on August 2, 1980. The couple made their home in Crookston until moving to Grand Forks in 1995.
Lona liked being busy and in her later years, when most folks would be settled into retirement, she enjoyed working as a paraprofessional at South Middle School until formally retiring at the age of 80. Her family, dogs, and neighbors were the passion of her life and it was often noted that Lona wasn’t happy unless she was feeding or helping someone in her family or community.
Lona is lovingly survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Curt Knutson of Fisher, MN; 4 grandchildren and their spouses: Amy and Russell Shimek of Grand Forks, and Chad and Carmen Knutson, Kristen and Travis Schwarz, and Nicole and Josh Krostue, all of Fisher, MN; 14 great-grandchildren: Annika, Ava, Autumn, Chandler, Clayton, Conley, Tristen, Harleigh, Riggin, Cortland, Chase, Camdyn, Carter, and Callahan; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Alice Pierce of San Tan Valley, AZ; her fur baby, Axel; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Lona was preceded in death by Howard, her beloved husband of 30 years; her parents, Leon and Bertha Pierce; brothers, Lewis, Lloyd, and Lyle; sisters, Luetta Tregler and Lillian Hulst; and other family members.
Blessed be the memory of Lona Mae Schuett.
In keeping with Lona’s wishes a private family memorial service will be held. Condolences may be offered to the family by going to Lona’s obituary page at www.stenshoelhouske.com. Memorials may be given in her name to Journey Home Animal Rescue, 2655 11th Avenue NE, Emerado, ND 58228.
