FOREST CITY — Valorie Jean “Val” Ensley, 67, of Forest City, formerly of Storm Lake and Sioux Rapids, died Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Good Samaritan Society in Forest City, surrounded by family and friends. She leaves behind memories of colorful handmade gifts, close friendships and a caring nature that earned her the nickname “Mother Hen.”
A celebration of Val’s life will be announced at a later date.
Val was born May 13, 1959, in Storm Lake to Melvin Theodore and Deloris Irene (McBride) Schossow. She grew up in the Truesdale area and attended Albert City–Truesdale Schools. Later in life, she continued her education in cosmetology and medical transcription.
On November 13, 1982, she married Steve C. Ensley in Laurens. Her family’s remembrance describes Steve as her best friend and soul mate. They welcomed their daughter, Hope, in 1991.
Val worked at the Buena Vista County Home, Sioux Care Center, Casey’s, Taco John’s and Kmart. Kmart held a special place in her working life, and she looked forward to the job and the people she met there. Friendships were an important part of her experiences wherever she worked.
Her creativity found expression in painted bricks, crocheted dolls, seasonal wreaths and diamond art. She personalized bricks for friends and relatives to display in their homes, sharing her enjoyment of crafts through gifts made especially for others. Her colorful creations and Native American decorations reflected her individual style.
Val also enjoyed Harley-Davidson motorcycles and riding with Steve. Her tattoos were another expression of her personality.
At the care center, Val enjoyed bingo, UNO, Yahtzee and card games with friends. Her outgoing manner and concern for others earned her the affectionate “Mother Hen” nickname. Morning coffee with Calvin was another part of the day she treasured.
Her family remembers someone who preferred to enjoy the present rather than worry about tomorrow. Val liked having fun, sharing laughter and helping others feel welcome. She often placed other people’s needs ahead of her own.
Val is survived by her daughter, Hope Ensley; granddaughter, Amoura Ensley; sisters, Mary (Robert) Beal and Alice “Alli” (John) Brudvig; brother, Milton Schossow; stepfather, Peter “Pete” (Della) Fehr; half sister, SuAnn Becton; stepbrother, Dan Fehr; stepsister, Melinda Oakes; aunt, Priscilla Boardman; and special friend, John Haugerud. She also leaves many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, extended relatives and friends, along with her beloved dogs, Sandy and Gizzy.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Steven C. Ensley; parents, Melvin Schossow and Deloris Fehr; brother, Melvin Theodore “Johnny” Schossow Jr.; paternal grandparents, Carl and Mary Schossow; maternal grandparents, Orvis and Alice McBride; and several aunts and uncles.
Those who knew Val will remember her willingness to care for others, her enjoyment of a friendly game and the handmade creations she shared with the people in her life.
Updates about her celebration of life and opportunities to share memories and condolences are available through Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapels.
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