Verna E. Knoener, age 98, a resident of Pine Haven Christian Home, died Wednesday morning, March 23, 2011.
Verna was born September 5, 1912 in the Town of Mosel to Otto and Emilie (Fischer) Wippermann. She was a graduate of Elm Grove Grade School. Prior to her marriage she was employed at her parent's home as an operator for the Mosel Centerville Telephone Company, which was founded by her father.
On May 21, 1932 Verna and Elmer R. Knoener were united in marriage at the Wippermann homestead. The couple owned and operated a dairy farm in the Town of Mosel until 1960 after which they moved to North 28th Street in Sheboygan. They added a greenhouse to their property where they continued their love of farming. They lovingly started their vegetable and flower seeds in early spring and maintained a beautiful garden which passersby would often stop and admire. Elmer preceded Verna in death on September 9, 1990.
Verna was a faithful member of St. Marks United Church of Christ, Town of Mosel. She was a wonderful homemaker who enjoyed baking and making candy as well as embroidering.
Verna is survived by her daughter, Donna Mae Ringel of Sheboygan; her son, Ronald C. (Diane) Knoener of Plymouth; five granddaughters, Roxanne (Kurt) Akstulewicz of Sheboygan, Cheryl Ringel Amir and her husband, Muhammad Amir of Washington, D.C., Lori Knoener and her husband, Scott Straub of Madison, Kristin (friend, Nate) Knoener of Brodhead, WI, and Rachel (friend, M'Bark) Knoener of Madison; three great-grandsons, Nicholas and Jonathan Akstulewicz, and Julian Straub; and other relatives and friends.
In addition to her husband, Verna was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Leon Ringel and twelve brothers and sisters: Edwin, Arno, Rose, Elsie, Hertha, Edna, Olga, Hubert, Milton, Gilbert, Ella, and Harold.
Funeral services will be held at twelve noon Saturday, March 26, 2011 at Ballhorn Funeral Chapels. Rev. William Kesting, Pastor of St. Marks United Church of Christ, Town of Mosel, will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Wildwood Cemetery on Monday.
A memorial fund has been established in her name for the handicapped access addition at St. Marks United Church of Christ, Town of Mosel.
Verna's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff at Pine Haven Christian Home for their kindness, help, and support these last few years.
Verna will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, her positive attitude and the love she held for her family.