Heidemann, Viola May

Viola May Heidemann, 96, of Manchester, passed away at her home Saturday, Sept. 14, 2013. Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, at Bohnenkamp-Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Manchester. Graveside Services to follow at Oakland Cemetery.

Viola was born in rural Delaware County, May 23, 1917, the eldest of five children born to Albert and Kathryn (Hahesy) Kerton. She graduated from Lamont High School. Viola was united in marriage to Harry Heidemann in 1937 in Galena, Ill. The couple made their home in Manchester. To this union was born one daughter, Mary Jane Heidemann.

Viola was a member of the Manchester United Methodist Church. She was a very loving and caring person providing foster care as well as caring for many people in her home throughout the years, including her mother until her death in 1980. She enjoyed her family. In the latter part of her life, Viola was cared for by her friend and loved one, Joan Meister. Her dear friend, Fred Pettlon was a faithful companion to her until her death.

Viola is survived by her daughter, Mary Jane Power of Milton, Wis.; three grandchildren, Lance and Kyle and Lori Power; one great-granddaughter, Lizzy Power and her daughter, Evalynn; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Joan Meister and Fred Pettlon.

Viola was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harry in 1992; and four siblings, Frances Kerton, Bernard Kerton, Margaret Milligan and Alice Garretson.

Please sign the online guest book for Viola at under obituaries.

Published in The Gazette Sept. 17, 2013.