Verna May Meta (Reimers) Riehl went peacefully on Saturday, November 4, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Verna to friends, Vernie to family, she was born to Otis and Arlene (Piepkorn) Reimers on May 22, 1937, in New London, Wisconsin. She was the 'Big Sister' and frequent caregiver to siblings Faye (Douglas) Hartleben, Carl (Theresa) Reimers, and Carla Kleiner. They survive her. An infant brother, Eddie, predeceased her.

Verna spent first through eighth grades as a student in the one-classroom Clover Leaf School in rural Dale, WI, then attended Hortonville High School. Over the years she was employed as a mother's helper before becoming a spray painter at Hortonville Toy Factory and Lullaby Furniture in Appleton. She later worked for Hillshire Farms in New London from which she retired.

Verna lived in Stephensville for 57 years, raising her six children across from the town playground. She had a gift of endless conversation and an 'always-open' door. Chats with neighbors or relatives who stopped by were looked forward to as much as visits from any of the "Riehl Family" who kindly included her in their various celebrations.

A music lover, Verna loved to dance, pick out tunes on her keyboard, and teach the little ones games. She enjoyed a good book, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, sewing doll clothes, baking, yardwork, and trying new recipes.

Her main interest was anything that involved her family: Darrell Riehl, Joel Riehl (deceased), Lisa (Todd) Hannah, Kevin (Kimberly) Riehl, Dawn (Ed) Ashauer, and Bruce (Julie) Riehl along with the numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In 2017 she moved to the Woodruff area with her son and daughter-in-law where she adored the wildlife and birds. Due to ill health she reluctantly returned to the Appleton area in 2021.

Those grandchildren and great-grandchildren will ever remember their 'Grandma V' with her homemade goodies and the nearly bottomless candy dish, who was always ready to have fun. Their parents will remember birthday and anniversary cards with the smile that came without fail.

"Mom, Thank You for your dedication to raising our family, showing us the ethics of hard work and how to be independent. We love you!"

Balancing the sadness of her death, Vernie leaves a thriving group of young people, family, and friends with treasured memories.

The Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at Highland Memorial Park Cemetery Chapel in Appleton followed by graveside services. Visitation will be at the chapel from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service.