Semler, Vella R.

Vella R. Semler, 75, of Iowa City, died peacefully at home Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5, at Gay & Ciha Funeral Service in Iowa City. Visitation will be Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Iowa City.

Vella R. “Vel” (Webb) Semler was born March 22, 1937, daughter of the Rev. Reece G. and Ada (Littleton) Webb in Atkins, Ark. She graduated from Atkins High School in 1955 and went onto work in a garment factory before moving to Iowa. After being courted through love letters while Harold was in the Army, they were married March 24, 1957. They've been married 55 eventful years.

Vel was a homemaker, loving mother and wife. When their children were young, she worked for a short time at Owens Brush (Oral-B) and then at City High in the cafeteria during 1980-1981.

Vel enjoyed sewing, especially making quilts and clothes. She was a gardener and canned many vegetables, getting good use out of many cookbooks. One of her favorite activities was “junkin” at garage sales and flea markets on the trip to Florida in the winters.

Vel's family includes her husband, Harold; children, Benny (Judy) Semler of Iowa City, Janice Semler of Iowa City and Steven (Debra) Semler of Wellman; grandchildren, Jodie (John) O'Conell of Solon, Michael Zieglowsky of North Liberty and Daniel (Samantha) Zieglowsky of Tipton; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Madison, Max and Ayla; and stepgrandson, Brendon; as well as numerous extended family who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; two sisters; three nephews; and two grandchildren, Jeff and Stephanie Semler.

Contributions in Vella's name can be made to Iowa City Hospice.

Online condolences may be sent to her family through the Web at .

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City is caring for Vel's family and her services.

Published Nov. 3, 2012 in the Gazette