Connie Mae Viel

With heavy hearts we say goodbye to our Mom, Connie Viel, 77, a devoted mother and cherished grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025 at her home in Byron, IL. Connie was born October 14, 1947 in Pearl City, IL, daughter of Ivan and Verna (Schaumburg) Gahm. Graduate of Pearl City High School and part of Future Homemakers of America (FHA), she met her husband, Gene Viel, member of Winnebago's Future Farmers of America (FFA), at the popular Elroy Roller Skating Rink during a celebration for local clubs. Shortly after, they rooted in Winnebago to farm and began her life's calling of raising their four kids. "The Farm", was open to all, had lots of animals, fun adventures and experiences.
Connie was hugely resourceful and poured her energy into taking care of their home and running her kids to countless 4-H meetings & project lessons, sports activities, swimming lessons, tumbling and dance, instrument and singing lessons and masterfully coordinating numerous livestock and project showings at the Winnebago County Fair each year. Her family grew up in the Middle Creek Presbyterian church, attending Sunday school, summer bible camp and Stronghold camping outings. They would also spend summer weekends vacationing at the KOA campgrounds in Lena, IL.
After her kids were grown, she started working at Amerock Corporation as a Finisher for over 15 years until they closed. She then spent her last 17 years at UPS in the scale house. She found joy in watching her grandkids, caring for her cats, manicuring her lawn and flowers, going for a stroll on her bike and putting together numerous puzzles.
Connie was a woman of immense grace, strength and resilience. She was small yet mighty, loving yet stern. She is a pillar of our family and our friends, always being open, offering a listening ear and unwavering support. Remembered most for her unconditional love and devotion, her delicious recipes, all her special touches that made every situation unique, intentional and forever memorable.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth as she is survived by: Son, Bob (Suzzette) Viel and their children Justin, Mark, Megan and Ava; son, Jim Viel and his sons Ivan and Kain; son, Joe (Danielle) Viel and their children Sam and Abby; daughter, Amanda (Tim) White and their children Grace, Gunnar, Grant, Ayden and Denton; and Brothers, Roger (Mary) Gahm, Daryl (Gwen) Gahm, and sister Judy (Rich) Moring
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ivan and Verna Gahm.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025 at Middle Creek Presbyterian Church, 12473 Montague Rd., Winnebago, IL., 61088 with Pastor Philip A. Thompson officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. before the service. Burial in Middle Creek Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Purrfection Animal Rescue, 605 Ridge Street, Galena, IL., 61036. To leave a memory or condolence, please visit olsonfh.com.