Viona C. {Heitkamp} Ruschau received her wings on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at the age 102. Viona was born on the 4th of July, 1922. She was one of ten children born to the late Fred and Cecelia {Bruns} Heitkamp. She grew up on a farm in Minster, Ohio; went to a one-room schoolhouse; and graduated from Minster High School.

Having an adventurous spirit, she moved to Dayton in her 20s. There she worked as a seamstress for Rike's Department Store, among other jobs, but was most proud of becoming a toolmaker at National Cash Register (NCR) during World War II. She was even asked to train the men when they came home from the war.

Viona married Paul Ruschau after the war and became a homemaker, raising six children. She was a talented seamstress, had an amazing green thumb, and was a great cook and baker. She could whip up a meal out of anything, and her coffee cakes, cinnamon rolls, and cookies were always in high demand.

In her later years, she moved to Garbry Ridge in Piqua, Ohio where she resided until her death. Viona will be remembered as a loving woman who always had goals in life, a sparkling smile, and a tune to whistle. She devoted her life to her family.

Viona is survived by her children Yvonne (Rey) Carranza, Jim (Kay) Ruschau, Joyce (Frank) Albers, Kathy (Dale) Brockman, Sue (Roger) Will and Julie (Greg) Bishop, 15 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Barbara (Robert) Wuebker of Minster, Ohio.

In addition to Viona's parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband of 54 years Paul, her son Anthony, grandchild Jessica, as well as eight siblings and their spouses.

The family would like to thank those at Garbry Ridge who treated her like family and hospice for their excellent care.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 16, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 753 S. Hyatt St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. Father Andrew Smith will preside. Viona will be laid to rest next to her husband at Calvary Cemetery, Dayton, Ohio. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in Viona's honor please consider the Garbry Ridge Memory Unit, 1567 Garbry Rd, Piqua, OH 45356. Arrangements have been entrusted to FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME , Tipp City, Ohio. Online condolences may be expressed at www.fringsandbayliff.com.

Garbry Ridge Memory Unit
1567 Garbry Ridge, Piqua OH 45356