MIldred "Millie" Lois Schnakenberg

Mildred “Millie” Schnakenberg, 97, passed away on July 19, 2026, in Emporia surrounded by her family.

She was born to parents Robert and Alleen Griffin on April 27, 1929, in Kansas City, Kansas. Her family included two sisters, Betty Rice and Joann Hankinson. Millie graduated from Wyandotte High School in Kansas City.

Millie married NE “Bud” Schnakenberg on September 9, 1950, in Kansas City. After a few years, they made their home in Emporia, Kansas and were members of Messiah Lutheran Church. They were blessed with four children and were actively involved and supportive of their many school programs and sporting events, rarely missing an activity.

Once her children were grown, Millie enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s school and sporting events. In later years, her great-grandchildren brought her tremendous joy. She was known for being generous with her family and causes that were important to them.

After retiring as a secretary, she discovered a love of golf. Some of her happiest years were spent with Bud traveling to golfing destinations, playing together at couple’s golf events, and golfing with friends. Among her golfing buddies, Millie was known for her quick wit, her sense of humor and love for the game.

Preceding her in death were her parents and sisters, her husband Bud, great-grandson Parker Schnakenberg, great-granddaughter Maggie Schnakenberg, and son Kent Schnakenberg.

Surviving family members include son Mark (Ann) of Emporia, Kansas, son Michael (Terri) of Sugar Land, Texas, daughter Debbie (Ken) Redeker of Olpe, Kansas, and daughter-in-law Natalie Schnakenberg of Emporia, Kansas.

Grandchildren Luke Schnakenberg, Sara Schnakenberg Kessler, Trent Schnakenberg, Paige Schnakenberg Rankin, Tom Schnakenberg, Brian Schnakenberg, Michelle Schnakenberg, Travis Redeker, Jamie Redeker Sieland, and Darin Redeker, 17 great-grandchildren, and her beloved dog, Coco, also survive.

A private family graveside service will take place at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Emporia, Kansas. You can leave online condolences can be left at robertsblue.com