Vivian Iola Heinecke

Vivian Iola Heinecke was born March 15, 1920 in Hegbert Township, Swift County, Minnesota, the daughter of William and Inga (Randen) Christenson.   She was baptized at home on March 22, 1920 by Rev. John Walseth and was confirmed October 20, 1935 by Rev. C.N. Sandager at Drywood Lutheran Church.  Vivian attended grade school at District 65 through the Eighth Grade.  She then attended Appleton High School where she graduated, Class of 1938.  Vivian spent her summer vacation months working for area farmwives.

On June 24, 1938 Vivian was united in marriage to Everett Schroeder.  This union was blessed with 45 years together and two sons: Keith and Richard.  Vivian and Everett farmed together in Lac qui Parle and Swift counties until selling the farm in 1962 and then moved to Appleton in 1964.  Vivian began working at Bruno’s Café in 1962 and remained there until her retirement in 1987.  Everett passed away December 26, 1983.  On November 23, 1989 Vivian married Harold Heinecke.  This union shared over 20 years together.  They spent 13 winters in Texas, enjoying fishing, cards, and dancing.

Vivian was the oldest living member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was  a member since 1940.  In her younger years Vivian served on the school board for District 36 for many years and was a long-serving Secretary of the Appleton Rod & Reel Club.  She enjoyed planting flowers and gardening, crocheting, embroidering, and quilting.

Vivian passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2019 in Litchfield.  She attained 98 years, 11 months, and 27 days of age.  Vivian is survived by her son, Richard Schroeder of Willmar; step-children: Brent (Karen) Heinecke of Fenton, MI, Rolf (Lee) Heinecke of Appleton, and Nancy (Don) Thorson of Lake Park; daughter-in-law, Renate Schroeder of Catawba, SC; 10 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; 6 step-great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Inga Christenson; husband, Everett Schroeder in 1983 ; husband, Harold Heinecke in 2010; son, Keith Schroeder; grandson Mark Schroeder; granddaughter, Anita Carlson; daughter-in-law, Joyce Schroeder; brothers: Harry Christenson and Willard Christenson; sisters: Vivian Iola Christenson, who died at age 3, Alice Sjkei, and Doris Molden.  Blessed be the memory of Vivian Iola Heinecke.