Obituary of Doris Irene Kensrud

Doris was born on June 9, 1927, in Niagara, North Dakota to Hugo and Luella Herrmann, where she grew up on the family farm with her two brothers; Richard and Norbert and two sisters; Lois and Edith. She attended nursing school in Grand Forks, North Dakota, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. She married Vernal Kensrud, on November 22nd, 1949. They lived in California, North Dakota, and then made their family home in Roy, Washington, where they resided for 47 years and raised their seven children. Doris enjoyed caring for her home, working in her garden, camping trips with the whole family, and riding her bicycle with her kids and grandkids! For many years she would join her daughters and daughters-in-law on weekend excursions to the mountains or shopping in Seattle for some good Mom and daughter time. But mostly, she looked forward to enjoying the company of her large family on birthdays and holidays. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, The Miriam Circle, and the church quilting group. Doris retired from Good Samaritan Hospital where she worked for 27 years in obstetrics, assisting in delivering babies. Doris helped deliver 8 of her 18 beautiful grandchildren. Doris and Vernal traveled after their retirement to many countries including; Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, Norway, Australia, New Zealand, and to many parts of the United States. Doris and Vernal were married for over 63 joyous years. Doris passed peacefully in her sleep at home on Tuesday, May 8th, 2012, she is with our Heavenly father in Heaven. She was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia 5 years ago and Vernal cared for her in their home. His care for her was an incredible show of love and selflessness, he never waivered, he always said it was a joy to take care of her, telling her his love for her, singing her songs, reading bible verses, and praying for peace and comfort (thank you Dad). Barb, (second oldest daughter) oversaw Doris’s care and was dedicated to weekly visits making sure that the schedules were made, clothes were washed, food was prepared and assisted and oversaw both Doris and Vernal’s needs. We were also blessed with loving, compassionate caregivers that we deeply appreciate; April, Sharon, Wendy, Sheri, Jody, and Daniela. We are also thankful for and her nurse’s Laura, Paula, and Jennifer with Franciscan Hospice Health Care. Doris is survived by her loving husband, Vernal of 63 years of marriage, children; Lois Belsvik, Barb & Skip Williams, Becky Kensrud, Dorraine & Brian Fleming, Mary Cope, Darren Cope, Dan & Lynn Kensrud, Tim & Michelle Kensrud, She is preceded in death by her son Barry Kensrud and son-in-law Lorne Belsvik, 18 grandchildren; Renae Belsvik, Brad & Stacy Belsvik, Nick & Jacquie Belsvik, Jamie (Williams) Chvatal, Jennifer (Williams) & Mark Schumacher, Richard Williams & fiancée Kacie, LeAnn (Kensrud) & Paul Woodmansee, Jeff & Brianne Kensrud, Matthew Fleming & fiancée Melissa, Jeremy Fleming, Sydney Johnston, Amber Cope, Angela Cope, Ashley Cope, Katrice Jepsen, Shelby Jepsen, Kristin Kensrud, Justin Kensrud, and 12 great grandchildren; Michael, Lacie, Brandon, Brooklyn, Liam, Emalee, Jaelyn, Palmer, Wade, Kyler, Claire, and Christian. She is also survived by four sister in-law’s; Centes Wheeler, Karen Herrmann Ruth Kensrud, and Verna Kensrud, many cousins, nieces, and nephews. A Funeral Service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 12115 Park Ave S, Tacoma, WA, on Wed. May 16, 2012 at 1pm. A graveside service will follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center 253-566-1008.