Denise Schipke-Smeenk
Denise grew up on the Schipke sheep farm and graduated from Newell High School in 1972 with 66 classmates. She just returned
from AZ where she met up with several classmates for a balloon ride to celebrate the fact they survived 70 years. Friends throughout her life are some of Denise’s most treasured blessings.
Of all the different jobs that Denise had, working for the Newell
School District was her most fulfilling. When she lived with her husband, Neil, at their Castle Rock Ranch she had the opportunity to work at the Moreau Country School. When the school closed, she was offered a position in Newell. When she worked in 1st grade there were four sets of twins, an amazing fact for such a small school. It was a wonderful experience getting to know some amazing students and working with some awesome teachers. Many memories were made.
Denise has two children, two stepchildren, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. After her husband passed, her son, Demian, and grandson, Abrym, came to live with her back at the Schipke Farm. They all have been busy repairing and restoring the property. In 2022, they had a 105-year birthday party for the farm. Denise’s grandfather, Henry Schipke, purchased and started building in 1917.
Denise was instrumental in starting the Student of the Month program at the Newell School. She supports community events and is a member of Dakota Life Christian Center. After attending WIC meeting where the speakers talked about the CASA program, Denise was inspired to take the training and to become a CASA volunteer. Her first case was a former Newell student and it ended in a successful placement.
Abrym Heinert
She is very proud of her grandson, Abrym Heinert, who is a Newell High School senior. It has been a privilege watching him grow into an awesome young man. He has helped Sabrina at school functions with Leadership Day. After graduating he is going to shearing school in Australia and coming back to work for his cousin, Kurtis Mooney. Denise loves the fact that he will continue in the sheep business, something she holds near and dear to her heart.
Sabrina Harmon, WIT Coalition Director, says “I appreciate both Denise and Abrym as they always jump into help with any event, bake sale, etc. that we have andalways with a smile. Abrym is part of the Newell High School Youth Leadership Team. Thank you both for being YOU”.
