Doris B. Schoessler

Doris B. Schoessler

1927 – 2024

Doris Bernice Wise Schoessler, beloved sister, wife, mother and dedicated registered nurse passed away June 28, 2024 the age of 97, in Spokane, Wash. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication and love that will be forever cherished by all who knew her.

The daughter of David and Verna Wise, Doris grew up on the family homestead on the South Fork of Mill Creek, where she went to grade school and later Colville High School.

Doris enlisted in the United States Cadet Nurses Corps after graduating from high school and began her lifelong career as a registered nurse. After finishing her initial training at Washington State College (now Washington State University), she completed her training at St. Luke's Hospital in Spokane. During this time, her roommate, Sally Kiehn, invited her on a weekend visit to her family farm outside Ritzville. While there, Doris met Sally's brother, Harold Schoessler.

After completing her registered nursing degree, Doris and Harold in October of 1948 began their married life together on the Schoessler Farm in Ritzville. In 1952, Doris and Harold were happy to welcome their son, Dale, to the family, and in 1955, their daughter, Kathryn. In 1959, the family moved to town, Ritzville, and welcomed another daughter, Carol Lee.

Doris worked at the Ritzville Hospital with Dr. Charles G. Smick. A need for a local nursing home was recognized and Doris worked with Dr. Smick in making that need a reality. Upon completion of the Hillcrest Nursing Home, Doris transferred there and after 40 plus years of serving the community she retired from her nursing career.

After retirement, Doris pursued her interests in painting, gardening, quilting and travel.

She is survived by her daughters Kathryn (Grant) Schumaker of Deer Harbor, Wash., and Carol Lee Frank of Moses Lake, Wash., brother, Phillip (Robbie) Wise of Deer Park, Wash., sister in law, Maxine Wise of Spokane, Wash.; five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

Doris had a life well lived and was very much loved by all that knew her. She will be greatly Missed

Services were at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Heritage Funeral Home in Spokane, Wash. A private interment was at the VA Cemetery in Medical Lake, Wash.