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Grace Opal Wortman, born on March 17, 1940, in Moscow Mills, MO the daughter of Walter R. and Eva M. (Westermann) Bueneman, transitioned peacefully on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at King's Daughters in Mexico, MO, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family and community.
The family invites all to celebrate the life of Grace with a visitation on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM at the First Christian Church of Vandalia. Phillip Gore will officiate. Grace will be laid to rest in the Vandalia Cemetery following the service.
The family is being served by the Waters Funeral Home of Vandalia.
Grace was united in marriage to the love of her life, Alvin, "Al" Wortman on June 8, 1958, in Troy, MO just a few weeks after graduating high school. These two sweethearts enjoyed sixty-three years of marriage together before his death on December 23, 2021.
Grace is survived by her loving daughter, Carla Wortman of Warrenton, MO; her dear brother, W.T. "Tom" Bueneman of Dunedin, FL; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
She now joins her dearly departed parents, her beloved husband, and her son, Mark Wortman in eternal rest.
A proud graduate of Buchanan High School, class of 1958, Grace devoted herself to the noble calling of homemaking, nurturing her family with a heart full of love and a spirit that touched all who knew her. Her dedication to her family was matched only by her fervent involvement in the First Christian Church of Vandalia, where she became an integral member of the Music Ministry and Sunday School. Through these cherished roles, she fostered a sense of community and inspired countless others with her passion for music and the Lord.
Grace's personality radiated warmth and kindness, qualities that endeared her to all. As a proud member of the PEO Chapter CE, Grace was always there to lend a helping hand, offering support and compassion to anyone in need. Her talents and hobbies were many; she found joy in playing the piano, pouring her heart into each note that resonated through the church and her home. Gardening brought her great satisfaction, as she lovingly tended to her flower beds, cultivating beauty in both her surroundings and her life. Cooking and sewing were also passions of hers, filled with the intention of creating comfort and joy for her family and friends. Among her beloved companions were her cherished dogs, who added joy and laughter to her daily routine.
Her spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her, reminding us all of the importance of love, kindness, and community.
Pallbearers will be Keith Kersting, Corey Enos, Shannon Wortman, John Tackett, Tim Kurz and Kevin Morris.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, in care of Waters Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made to the family on Grace's memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
500 S Main St P. O. Box 84, Vandalia, MO 63382
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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