She earned her degree from Minnesota State University-Mankato and taught elementary school in Renville and Lafayette, as well as at John Ireland Elementary and South Elementary in St. Peter, Minnesota. Val and Carl loved to travel and shared many wonderful adventures with their dear friends, Hank and Char Ruble. Throughout the years, Val was active in many church activities, a serving group, several community theater productions, the library, the St. Peter Art Center, and the History Center. Val generously donated her body to the Mayo ClinicBody Donation Program in Rochester, Minnesota. Memorials are preferred to Trinity Lutheran Church, the American Heart Association, or the donor's charity of choice.