Viola Margaret Spitler

Viola Margaret Bunde Spitler

A bright shining star appeared in the heavens on October 20, 1921, when Viola Margaret was born to Herman and Frieda Bunde. That star lost its luster when Vi died on June 14, 2023, at the age of 101. The years in between were well-lived.

She attended Trilby Elementary School and Whitmer High School until she left in tenth grade to help the family. That was one of her greatest gifts…family always came first.

On April 19, 1947, Vi married Gerald Edwin Spitler and together they reared six daughters. She was a stay-at-home mom while dad took the only car to work for LOF. When the youngest daughter was old enough for school, she sold Avon door to door in Sylvania. She was highly successful in her sales, and it quickly became apparent how well she got along with people. Soon after, she was employed by the Lion Store which later became Dillard's, working first at the downtown store, then Westgate, and finally Southwyck. Using her great personality, people skills, organizational talents, and even learning the computer system, she became a successful buyer for them, retiring in the mid 80's. All the while she was employed outside the home, she was also working and caring for her family. She canned countless jars of tomatoes and catsup and froze a wide variety of vegetables from dad's large garden. Her jarred green tomatoes were popular with many families and friends. Every fall she made enough applesauce to get us through to the next season. Mom was a good cook who also loved to bake cookies, cakes, and pies. Even with a large family, there was always room for one more at the dinner table.

Mom and Dad worked hard and saved all their lives so it was a blessing when they could finally enjoy the fruits of their labors by traveling together on many cruises and tours all over the United States and the world. They also enjoyed their vacation home and friends in Florida. When they were not traveling, she loved to read, and she had beautiful flowers. She took after her own father with her green thumb. Bingo was also a favorite pastime.

Mom was diagnosed with macular degeneration and as the years passed, she lost more and more of her vision until being legally blind became totally blind a few months before her passing. She never let that stop her from doing what she wanted to do. She had a zest for life and was always motivated to make the most of it. She was an inspiration to everyone.

After dad died, mom decided to downsize and move to Mayberry Village where she became their most popular resident. She always welcomed and invited new residents to morning coffee and bingo and the Wednesday dinners. Everyone could always count on mom's support at the social events some of which she started. We heard residents refer to her as "The Queen of Mayberry" or "Mayberry's Treasure." She loved her friends there and she always looked out for them. Many passed on and instead of letting it get her down, she continually made new friends. She never lost her sense of humor. She was a blessing to all who knew her.

Viola was preceded in death by her parents; all her siblings; and her husband of 62 years. She is survived by her daughters, Barbara Stockman (Mark), Janet Foster (Stephen), Jo Anne Spitler, Jerri Griffith, Deborah Bell (Roland) and Linda Mojzer (Michael). She is also survived by nine grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews; and a multitude of friends.

Rest in peace Mom. You deserve it! We have been blessed to have you for our mom. We are more than grateful for all your love and care. We are thankful for all that you sacrificed for us and for the wonderful example that you set. We love you!

Arrangements were made through Reeb Funeral Home but in accordance with mom's wishes there will be no visitation or service. Online condolences to

www.reebfuneralhome.com