In-Law Blessing

My in-laws, Walt and Joann Schulenberg had a long and happy marriage. They were married 64 years before my father-in-law’s May 5, 2013, passing. My mother-in-law lived another 5 years, passing on January 4, 2018. I always felt blessed by my in-laws, who welcomed me into their family readily and happily. Immediately I felt like I was more their daughter than just a daughter-in-law, and I always felt very blessed to have this particular set of in-laws. There are people who dislike their in-laws, I was never one of those people.

My in-laws knew each other all their lives, because their parents were friends. Their mothers especially were best friends and often spent time together. That meant the kids had many playdates before they ever thought of having actual dates. By the time Joann was born, Vina and Nettie were friends. In fact, that is how Walt and Joann “famously” slept…well napped…together when he was two and she was an infant. I think that story is sweet, but my mother-in-law was always more than a little bit embarrassed, whenever the subject came up. The fact is, that early on, my mother-in-law wasn’t sure she liked my father-in-law. I have thought about that over the years and come to the conclusion that he probably had a crush on her long before he let her know. If it was at a younger age…well, we all know how clumsy boys can be when expressing their love for a girl. She probably thought he was just being annoying. My father-in-law always was a teaser, so it makes sense that he was then too.

Nevertheless, once they got together, the rest was history. They loved each other totally and completely. They raised six children together, with Dad as the breadwinner, and Mom as the keeper of the home. Mom made their clothes, canned vegetables and was a great cook and baker. Dad kept the place and the vehicles in good shape. Times weren’t always easy, but they always had love. Dad worked very hard, and often long hours, to take good care of his family. They were a great match, and they were very happy. Today they both live in Heaven, and I know they are still celebrating their lives together. Happy anniversary in Heaven, Mom and Dad Schulenberg. We love you, and we miss you very much.