Viola Henning, 86

Viola “Ole” Mae Henning, 86, Miltona, died Saturday, September 1, 2012, surrounded by family, at Knute-Nelson in Alexandria.

Viola Mae was born April 15, 1926 to Otto and Theresa (Roth) Bast, at home in Belle River Township. She was baptized May 9, 1926 and confirmed July 14, 1940 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Carlos. She attended Country School District 92 and graduated from Central High School in Alexandria in 1944. She was united in marriage to Melvin E. Henning on February 24, 1946 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Carlos. Following their marriage, they lived in Miltona where they raised their two children.

Viola worked at local cafes in Miltona, and also cleaned many cabins on Lake Miltona. She was loved by so many people and her friendship was enjoyed by many, also. Viola was known for her canning and selling vegetables from her large garden. Many stopped by her home to pick up the freshest vegetables and the short visits. She welcomed everyone.

Highlights of her life included Mount Calvary Lutheran Church and LWML, VFW Auxiliary for over 25 years, making quilts and selling poppies, Bible Study Group, Red Hats and their monthly lunches, day trips around Minnesota with her family, Miltona Senior Citizens where she played cards and all enjoyed her homemade goodies, and for years she took her flowers and vegetables to the county fair where she won many ribbons. In her later years, she baked cookies and treats for the troops twice a year. She enjoyed her flowers from her deck and bird watching. She loved to dance and listen to music with her friends. Viola loved her family and especially enjoyed spending time with her three great-grandsons.

Viola is survived by her two children, Cheryl (Clem) Suchy and Donald Henning, both of Miltona; grandson, Shane (Jodi) Suchy of St. Michael; three great-grandsons, Logan, Brady and Jake Suchy; sister, Lucille Wussow of Alexandria; four sisters-in-law, JoAnn Bast, Barbara Bast, Diane Bast and Helen Frier; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Viola was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Melvin, in 2000; and three brothers, Harvey Bast, Lloyd Bast and Glen Bast.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, September 5 at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Miltona with the Rev. William Stockman officiating. Music was provided by organist, Deb Joachim and vocalist, Gary Gylsen. Burial was at the church cemetery.

Casket bearers were Shane Suchy, Bill Reese, Rhiney Luedeke, David Mohn, DuWayne Olstad, Terry Stanley and Jeff Koep. Honorary casket bearers were Jodi Suchy, Logan, Brady and Jake Suchy, VFW Auxiliary, Bible Study Group and Red Hat Ladies.

Arrangements are by Lind Family Funeral and Cremation Service; www.lindfamilyfh.com.

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