Viola Zierden

Viola E. Zierden, age 86 of Grey Eagle, formerly of New Munich, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at her son, Duane's home on Little Birch Lake.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 28 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich with Rev. Eberhard Schefers officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday and from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich. Parish prayers will be held at 5 p.m. Monday evening at the church.

Viola Elizabeth Ruegemer was born December 6, 1930 in St. Martin Township, Stearns County, Minnesota to Alfred and Magdalena (Blonigen) Ruegemer. She was united in marriage to Jerome Zierden on May 24, 1950 at the family farm south of New Munich. They had a double wedding that day with her sister, Marcella and Jerome's brother, Art. Viola was an avid gardener who enjoyed growing radishes, strawberries, and beautiful flowers. She was very active in her church where she was a member of the Christian Mothers and was involved with numerous quilting groups and card clubs. Many of Viola's quilts and embroidery work were gladfully given as gifts.

Viola lived a very active life. She was part of the bowling league in Melrose for many years, enjoyed line dancing, watching the Minnesota Twins, especially Kirby Puckett, and loved taking walks. Her cinnamon rolls will be missed by many of her family members as well as the time spent visiting over coffee and cookies.

Survivors include her children, Duane (Joan) Zierden of Grey Eagle, Renee (Al) Licht of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Esther (Randy) Carlson of Shakopee, Lloyd (Sandy) Zierden of New Munich, Maynard (Robin) Zierden of St. Martin, Ardell Zierden of Grey Eagle, and Bruce Zierden; 21 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; brothers, Sylvester (Peggy) Ruegemer, Melvin Ruegemer, Edwin Ruegemer, and Lawrence (Mary) Ruegemer; and sister, Lorraine Hoffman.

Viola was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Zierden in 1979; parents; brother, Virgil Ruegemer; and sisters, Marcella Zierden and Lorella Pundsack.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.