Valerie Jean Schwartz, 80, of Burlington, died Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.
Born September 4, 1945, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Wilford and Delores Wolbert Gantz. On September 2, 1982, she married John Schwartz in Burlington.
She was a 1963 graduate of Burlington High School. Valerie later worked at a number of local companies including Grier's Diner, Sylvania Electric Products, Antennacraft, and the Conifer Corporation.
She loved books and could always be found reading. Valerie loved seeing the Budweiser Clydesdale horses and tried to see them in person as often as she could. Animals held a special place in her heart and she had many pets over the years, even an iguana. Valerie also enjoyed collecting Barbie - she had such a collection that she dedicated a room in her home to them. Valerie enjoyed spending time with her husband. They could be found playing the slot machines on the river boat. They even took a trip to Las Vegas to play the slots. They took many vacations to Branson together. Valerie was a great mom. She worked hard to make sure her family had what they needed and she was a great provider for her daughter. Her love and kindness will be missed tremendously.
Survivors include her daughter, Holly Williams; half-sister, Terrie Hawke; nieces, Shawn Perkins, Rhonda Jordan; nephews, Darin Breightensteine and Soren Hawke; and her grand furbabies, Lilith Pearl and Obama.
Valerie is preceded in death by her husband, John; parents, Wilford and Delores; and sister, Ginger Breitenstein.
Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.
A graveside service for Valerie will be held at a later date. Information will be published when it becomes available.
Memorial contributions are suggested tot he Des Moines County Humane Society.
Please continue to keep Valerie's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.