Iris M Schoregge

Iris M. Schoregge, 91, died January 3, 2018, at Sunset Drive-A Prospera Community in Mandan. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, January 13, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, with Rev. Ron Hildahl officiating. Cremation has taken place. Iris was born on July 27, 1926 in Judson, ND, the daughter of George F. & Ruby H. (Just) Maier. Following graduation from high school she attended Bismarck Junior College prior to completing her nursing degree at The Bismarck Hospital School of Nursing. She continued her post-graduate studies in Obstetrics in Providence, Rhode Island, and became employed as the head nurse in the delivery room at Butterworth Hospital; Grand Rapids, Michigan. Iris returned to Bismarck, and in 1951 married Dr. Robert Schoregge in New Salem, ND. They were blessed with two daughters, Diane and Jill; and although Iris retired from nursing, she began working with the hospital and medical auxiliary. Her work there opened her eyes to much deeper involvement in social issues. Iris began working tirelessly on behalf of the less fortunate, particularly in the areas of mental health. She served as Chairperson of the Mental Health Center for 10 years and as a National Board Member of Mental Health. As volunteer extraordinaire, Iris championed the cause for the needy through politics as well. She was quoted in the Bismarck-Mandan Greeter publication as saying, “My causes are all for people. They’re truly non-partisan. I just hate to see them get all caught up in politics, so that we lose sight of the people who are hurting and need our help so badly.” In addition, Iris opened her home to the Miss North Dakotas for 10 years as a second mom, and enabled children from the poor areas of Chicago to come and experience living in North Dakota. Iris served on numerous boards and committees in the area, including The School of Hope, the Volunteer Action committee, P.E.O sisterhood, Planned Parenthood, United Blood Services, and was active in the United Church of Christ. Iris married Ronald ‘Bert’ Wheeler on November 2, 1984, in Fargo, and they made their home in Mandan. She continued her work on behalf of Mental Health Association issues. She and Bert hosted numerous fundraising events at their home along the Missouri River, such as the Farwest Riverboat Show, involving local musical talent in the production. A favorite quote from Albert Schweitzer hung near Iris’ phone for years. “One thing I know-the only ones among you who will really be happy are those who will have sought and found a way to serve.” Iris is survived by her husband Bert; daughters, Diane and Jill; grandson, Corey (Trista) Amoruso; great-grandson, Ryker Amoruso; sister, Marian and her children, Kyle and Eric; Bert's children and their families; and one beloved kitty, Cocoa. She was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Robert Schoregge; an infant son; and her parents,George and Ruby Maier. Memorials to Kitty City, 4747 22nd Ave., Mandan, ND, 58554; Furry Friends Rockin' Rescue, PO Box 7364, Bismarck,ND 58501; or your choice of animal rescue organization.