July 27, 1919 ~ February 16, 2017
Vera Elizabeth Ames was born July 27, 1919 to Elmer and Sarah Ames on her family homestead in Grant County Oklahoma. She attended New Hope Grade School one mile from her home in Grant County. She graduated from Caldwell High School in 1937. She was always proud of her roots and enjoyed attending CHS Homecoming.
Her life changed in 1939 when friends introduced her to a tall, handsome gentleman, Ivan Struble her Freshman year at CHS. After graduation, Vera attended and completed business College in Wichita. In 1943, while Ivan was still in the army, Ivan and Vera were married in Boluxi, Mississippi. To this union four children were born, Sharon, Steve, Sue and Shelley.
Vera was the ultimate farm wife and mother and took a lot of pride in both roles. She made clothing for her children and was a great cook. For many years, she helped with a variety of 4-H projects including dress reviews at the Grant County Fair. She was a member of the Red Bud Club in Grant County for over sixty years and so loved the many friendships made in this club and others.
Vera loved baking breads, cookies, and pies and also canning. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren always knew that she’d have beef jerky waiting for them when they visited. She won several ribbons at both the Grant County Fair and Sumner County Fair.
After moving from the family farm to Caldwell, Vera began selling Mary Kay cosmetics. She forged many friendships and loved selling her products to family as well. Although Vera was one tough lady, she was a beautiful person both inside and out. Looking her best was always important to Vera.
Vera was a member of the United Methodist Church in Caldwell for many years. She enjoyed attending church and was grateful to get to do so until recent years. Her Red Hat Club was very enjoyable for Vera in her later years. Fellowship with friends always had a special place in her heart.
Family time was always a special time for Vera. She always had something sweet for all to enjoy. Visiting local hot spots was another pastime favorite. Vera was able to enjoy her independence for most of her elder years, which she always valued. Even a neighborhood cat couldn’t resist Vera’s charm and became a good companion for her.
Vera was preceded in death by her parents, her three brothers, Eldon, Max and Don; her beloved Ivan; and son-in-law James Watson.
She is survived by her four children, Sharon Watson, Steve Struble and his wife Brenda, Sue White and her husband Rod and Shelly Kern. Her legacy also includes 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; Jeff and Tina Watson; Leha Watson; Brock, Anna, Kiley and Noelle, Jayce, Austen and Jamesy Swentzel; Cori, Ami, Hanna, Trey and Hallee White; Casie, Cliff, Jalen, Jackson and Ella Risley; Cody, Kristen, Karsyn, Camden and Chandler White; Brenna Struble and Braxton; Derek Kern; Bailey Kern; Laura, Nate Mackenzie, Mallorie and Jared Lund.
Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 20, 2017 at the United Methodist Church in Caldwell.
Memorials may be given in memory of Vera to the United Methodist Church or to the Sumner County Hospital District #1.
Leave Condolences
Condolences
So sorry to hear about Vera.
Vonya Schwertfeger - 02/17/2017
So sorry to hear about Vera. Have a lot of fond memories of her from when all of us kids biked the roads of Renfrow. RIP, Vera.
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So sad to hear my aunt Vera
Judy (Ames) Thiebaud - 02/18/2017
So sad to hear my aunt Vera has passed. Even though we have lived apart for many years, the flood of memories have never faded. The many weekends on the farm, the special fried chicken dinners and many fun times with the kids were something I have treasured. Our lives are better for having known her. I always felt a special bond with her after my father died.
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Sharon, Sue, Steve and Shelly
LAVERNE CHAPMAN - 02/18/2017
I was very sad to hear of Vera passing. Knew her from working at Karl's but also we joined Easter Star at the same time. She was a sweetheart and a very loving women. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Wish I could be there for her furneal but live to far away now.
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To Vera's family:
Jerry Sander - 02/19/2017
When Ivan started farming for Merle and me, Ivan and Vera became part of our family. We had many good visits together, even though we lived in Colorado at the time. They were both wonderful people and Vera has always been a gracious and loving person. I will miss visiting with her on my annual visit to Caldwell.
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Sharon, Steve, Sue, Shelley
Rita Cale Krentzel - 02/19/2017
So sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I have such fond memories of her from when I was a child. I remember a loving person and great Sunday dinners after church. I remember great times spent at the Struble farm. I Will always remember her great smile and wonderful laugh. Please remember all the happy times with her.
Rita
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Shelley and family
Priscilla Rinehart - 02/20/2017
I'm so sorry to read of the passing of your mother and grandmother. My prayers are with you during this time of loss.
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My Heartfelt Sympathy
Glynda Garver Young - 02/21/2017
Vera & Ivan have left a priceless Legacy with Caldwell & farm families of yore. Treasure the memories - they are special. Bless you all, Glynda
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I'll Miss My Beloved Aunt Vera
Jill Crocker - 02/24/2017
Aunt Vera was my last aunt, and although she lived a long and productive life, her loss is felt deeply by many of us. I am thankful I was able to share her 95th birthday with her! What a fun party it was! She truly enjoyed being around her family and friends! I enjoyed sending her a few dollars to play KENO and told her to let me know if she hit it big! Nobody will ever make peanut brittle like my Aunt Vera! Sending love to my cousins, Sharon, Steve, Sue & Shelley. XOXOXO
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Sharon, Steve, Sue, & Shelly,
Janet Metzinger... - 02/25/2017
Our sympathy to all of you, and your families, at the loss of your Mom. She was such a sweet and friendly lady. I remember seeing her, and your Dad, at numerous football & basketball games during our high school years. My mother, Marilyn Metzinger, wishes to extend her sympathy, as well. She enjoyed your Mom's friendship as a fellow member of the Red Hat Society. Your Mom will be greatly missed. God Bless!
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