Arvilla Wendorff Obituary
Elizabeth, Wisconsin, United States
October 13, 1923 - January 26, 2016
Share Obituary:
591 Views
Arvilla Wendorff Obituary
Oct 13, 1923 - Jan 26, 2016
This obituary is administered by:
Wendorff, ArvillaArvilla Myrna Wendorff, 93, of Wausau, died in her home Saturday, November 26, 2016. Her four children were with her during her final hours.Arvilla was born on October 13, 1923, on a farm near Montello, Wisconsin, the daughter of Gustave and Laura (Wiesjahn) Grothman. She grew up in Portage, Wisconsin, where she graduated second in the class of 1941, was editor-in-chief of the year book, and was selected by her teachers and fellow students to receive the DAR Good Citizen Award. She attended the
University of Wisconsin in Madison, where she was a member of Calvary Lutheran Chapel and sang in the choir. Arvilla graduated in 1945 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. She went on to teach high school English and Latin in New Lisbon, Wisconsin, and to serve as the high school librarian in Watertown, Wisconsin.On June 26, 1948, Arvilla married Roland Wendorff, whom she had met at the University. She joined Roland in Wausau, where he was employed, leaving a career in teaching to make a home with Roland and raise their four children. She provided a loving home for her family, frequently managing the household by herself when Roland was away on business.Arvilla was an active member of AAUW (American Association of University Women) for over 50 years and became an honorary life member on September 19, 2001. She served mobile meals for many years with her dear friend Virginia Williams. She was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church for over six decades and served on the church's altar guild.Arvilla had many enduring friendships. She was a patient and attentive listener. She never made herself the center of attention but focused on those she was with.Arvilla enjoyed reading, gardening, dining with family and friends, and traveling. After Roland's retirement, Arvilla and Roland traveled worldwide with trips to England, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Scandinavia, Egypt, Turkey, Australia, Russia, China (shortly after it was opened to travelers), Mexico, and Alaska. They also made a number of Rose Bowl trips to cheer on the UW Badgers. Arvilla's family was always at the center of her life. She was a devoted wife and supportive partner for Roland throughout their marriage of almost 66 years. She loved each of her children for their unique selves. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She graciously welcomed her children's and grandchildren's spouses into the family.Arvilla is survived by her children Eric (Kathleen) Wendorff, Middleton, Mark (Mary) Wendorff, Wausau, Steve (Bonnie) Wendorff, Madison, and Laura Wendorff (Harry Kronick) Platteville; her grandchildren Timothy Wendorff, Baltimore, Emily Wendorff, Middleton, Ann (Jeffrey) Lange, Monroe, Elizabeth (Kyle) Utecht, Wausau, Alyssa Wendorff-Holl (Isaiah), Minneapolis, and Samuel and Grace Arvilla Kronick, Platteville; her great-grandchildren Theresa Lange, Monroe, and Thomas and Simon Utecht, Wausau; her brother Harold Grothman (Joan), Thiensville; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.The family thanks the wonderful caregivers of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services and Pastors Steven K. Gjerde and Ted B. Gulhaugen for their spiritual care.Funeral services will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, 709 6th St, Wausau, at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 9, 2016. Relatives and friends may call to pay their respects at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Entombment will be at Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services, or Wausau Area Mobile Meals.Condolences may be given at
www.brainardfuneral.com.
You can to the family or in memory of Arvilla Wendorff.
Share Obituary:
591 Views
Guestbook