Violet Ruby Gertsch, age 92 of rural Darlington, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017 at her home. She was born Jan. 19, 1925 in Wiota, the daughter of Edward and Alice (Field) Holverson. Violet graduated from Argyle High School as Valedictorian in 1943. She was united in marriage to Albert Gertsch on Feb. 21, 1945 at West Wiota Lutheran Church in Wiota. Violet lived and grew up in Wiota until later moving to Darlington.
Violet is survived by her children: Lynn (Lester) Andrews of rural Darlington, Allynn (Denise Iverson) Gertsch of Wiota, Arlynn Gertsch of rural Darlington, Colynn (Lori Lynn) Gertsch of Sparta, Galynn (Christine) Gertsch of St. Rose, Ill., and Noellynn (Lori Anne) Gertsch of Roswell, Ga.; one daughter-in-law: Beverly Gertsch of rural Darlington; 14 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Albert on Oct. 14, 2003; one son: Verlynn on March 11, 2008; twin brothers: Rolon and Roy; one sister: Amy Holverson; and her step-mother: Minnie Holverson.
Violet was a very active member of Grace Lutheran Church, its WELCA, and Cover Girls. She was a Sunday School Teacher for both West Wiota Lutheran Church and Grace Lutheran Church for a number of years. Violet was a Lucky Clover Leaves 4-H leader for many years and was a founding member of Red Rock H.C.E. She was an active dairy promoter, and loved to write for both historical purposes and family history. Violet loved her animals especially her guard goose. She cherished her family and the memories they created together. She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her family and friends.
A funeral service was held Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church (1302 Clay Street, Darlington) where Rev. Craig Simenson officiated. Burial was in West Wiota Cemetery. A visitation was held Friday, Dec. 22, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church. A visitation was also held Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.
For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Violet’s name.