Doris Caroline (Knutson) Schleis

Doris Caroline (Knutson) Schleis, 94, Denmark, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2011. She was born on May 22, 1917 in Denmark to Nicholas and Ella (Derwort) Knutson. Following her graduation from high school, Doris attended Le Clair School of Beauty Culture in Milwaukee, receiving a diploma in 1935, and also attended the School of Millinery in Chicago. Upon deciding to join the family business at Knutson Funeral Home, Doris attended the WI Institute of Mortuary Science, where she was the only woman student in her class. She graduated in 1939. She also had a certificate in plastic surgery. Doris married Melvin “Ozzie” Schleis, November 13, 1954 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Denmark. Together they owned and operated Knutson Funeral Home in Denmark until their retirement. Ozzie preceded her in death on Nov. 26, 2008. Some of Doris’ many talents and hobbies included sewing, crafts, and baking. She was a devoted and loving mother, and took care of any one in need. Doris is survived by her daughters: Debra (Aldo) Warren and Wendy Gartland; and grandsons: Tom, Cormac, and Damien Gartland. She is also preceded in death by her parents and her sisters; Olive and Virginia. Family and friends may call at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 435 Wisconsin Ave., Denmark, on Friday, September 2, 2011 from 12 noon to 2:00 pm. The service will follow at 2 pm with Rev. Andrew Zoerb officiating. Interment will follow at the West Danish Cemetery. Knutson-Cotter Funeral Home, Denmark, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cotterfuneralhome.com The family would like to express a special thanks to Bishop’s Court and their entire staff, who went above and beyond in their care for Mom. As well as Heartland Hospice who also offered care and comfort when it was most needed. She will be missed forever, by so many. The world is a better place for having Doris walked upon it for 94 years.