Viola (Wilhelm) Schneider, of WaKeeney, passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at Trego Manor, WaKeeney. She was 92 years of age. Viola was born January 20, 1924, in Barton County, to Heinrich and Amelia “Mollie” (Miller) Wilhelm.
Viola was united in marriage on November 10, 1945 to Bernhardt Schneider in Trego Center. They enjoyed 55 years of marriage before he passed away on August 10, 2001. She is survived by four children, Richard Kimm (Susan) Schneider of Harker Heights, Texas, Michael Lee (Kathy) Schneider of Collyer, Sherryl Ann (Jeff) DiLallo of St. Louis, Missouri, and Mark Allen Schneider of Springfield, Missouri; twelve grandchildren, Troy (Lisa) Schneider of Arvada, Colorado, Tabitha (David) Albertson of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Tamara Schneider of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Adam (Jannelle) Schneider of Lawson, Missouri, Kahl (Heather) Schneider of Adair, Iowa, Chauncy (Liz) Schneider of WaKeeney, Becky (Aaron) Hanneke of Great Bend, Mary (Joe) Herskowitz of Hoxie, Jon (Chelsea) DiLallo of Kansas City, Missouri, Sarah DiLallo of St. Louis, Jennifer DiLallo of Bagè, Brazil, and Amerie Schneider of Littleton, Colorado; twenty five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Jeanie Bailey of Russell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Connie Schneider, a grandson, Tate Aaron Schneider, six sisters, and nine brothers.
Viola was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Church Women’s Group, and the VFW Auxiliary. She worked at the Boeing Factory in Wichita during World War II and was nicknamed
“Blondie” –which was embroidered on her factory uniforms.
Viola was a proud homemaker, who cherished time spent together with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed a good fishing trip, cooking, quilting, gardening, and trips to the casino. She was an accomplished checkers player who relished a challenging match with family and friends. She was known for her feisty spirit, giving heart, and joyous nature. She made and gave many hand sewn quilts and home-cooked meals to those she loved and were in need. Her unconditional love and forgiveness were constant throughout her life.
Her entire life was guided by her forgiving nature and unconditional love.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney. Burial will be in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Trego Center.
Visitation will be Monday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church. Donations made to the church may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.schmittfuneral.com.