Della Jean (Skogen) Stippich, age 89, of Hettinger, ND, died Thursday, April 23, 2020 at the Western Horizons Care Center in Hettinger.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Della was born in Hettinger, ND, on February 1, 1931, and was the youngest daughter of Edwin and Anna Skogen. She had two older sisters and three younger brothers. Della grew up on a farm north of Hettinger. She initially attended country school, later graduating from Hettinger High School. After graduation, she began working at Quickstad's Grocery in Hettinger. She married Gordonna (Dode) Quickstad on August 2, 1960, and they operated the store together until his passing in 1982. They enjoyed traveling on Sundays, often driving through the Badlands or the Black Hills to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Della and Alfred Walby were united in marriage on May 3, 1985 and resided in Hettinger. Al passed away on September 8, 1988.

Della married LaVerne Stippich on November 10, 1990. LaVerne died on July 2, 2013. Throughout their marriage, Della and Vern spent time traveling across the United States, frequently attending heavy equipment sales.

In 2015, Della moved to Western Horizons Assisted Living and was currently residing in the Western Horizons Care Center.

Della was an incredible Christian woman who always looked for the beauty in life. An extremely gifted artist, she painted beautifully in different mediums and was exceptionally skilled in painting scenery and portraits. Over the years, she won many awards in art shows and exhibits.

Della was a member of the Hettinger Lutheran Church. She was active in many organizations, Royal Neighbors, American Legion Auxiliary, Eagles Auxiliary, For the Beauty of Hettinger, and the Hettinger Art Association.

Della cherished spending time with family and friends. Although she had no biological children, she was a beloved Grandma to many. She always had such a positive outlook and could lift anyone's spirits with her words and hugs. She unselfishly took care of others and was a blessing to all who knew her. Although her death saddens us, we are grateful to have been able to share in her life. We rejoice and find comfort in her salvation.

Della is survived by her sister, Doris Hite, Marion IA; her brothers, Dale (Audrey) Skogen, Hettinger ND, and Donny (Mary Ellen) Skogen of Johnstown ND; her step-children, Jim (Linda) Stippich, Hettinger ND, Lonnie (Carol) Stippich, Hettinger ND, Karen Madler, New England ND, Bunny (Chuck) DeSouchet, New England ND; nieces and nephews, Michele Gaylord, Sherry Gaylord Palmer, Linda McCaw, Donna (Patrick) Servey, Karla (David) Cliburn, Lahoma (Joe) Turner, Dale Skogen, Jody (Tammy) Skogen, Mariya (Kevin) Mosser, Seth (Sarah) Skogen, Sean (Chelsee) Skogen, Samantha (Brian) Kessler, Michael (Lisa) Skogen, David (Tasha) Skogen, Suzy (Justin) Boseck; great nephew and nieces, Mark Thormodsgard, Holly (Tony) Flach, Heidi (Tony) Johnson; step-grandchildren, Jim L. Stippich, Jeff (Tonya) Stippich, Jolyn Stippich, Kim (Theron) Schalesky; great nieces and nephews; great-great nieces and nephews; step-grandchildren; a special "adopted" daughter, Kathy Stelter; and many dear friends.

Della was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Dorlene Gaylord; brothers Dorwin Skogen, and Donald Skogen (died in infancy); stepchildren, Kay Stecher and Ron Walby; and her husbands, Dode, Al, and Vern.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.evansonjensenfuneralhome.com