Viola Steers Rich

Viola Steers Rich, 95, of Grand Forks, ND, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on May 19th, 2020, with the loving care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Viola Elizabeth, daughter of Christian and Louise Steffes, was born on May 15th, 1925 on the family farm near Andover, SD. She was the 9th of 10 children. Viola attended Andover High School and graduated from Notre Dame Junior College in Mitchell, SD.
Viola married Robert Lewis Steers of Aberdeen, SD on August 19th, 1952. Bob and Vi created a fun, loving home for their four children, Renee (Doug) Long, JoLynn (Jeff) Barrett, Bob Steers, Dawn (Dave) Edvall. Friends and Family were always welcome and gathered often for Vi’s famous Sloppy Joes and Chocolate Cake. She loved everyone she met! Bob and Vi were active members of Holy Family Catholic Church. Vi appreciated Monsignor Brian Donahue so very much.

Vi’s eight grandchildren, their spouses, her thirteen great grandchildren, and all their pets, gave her great joy. She treasured each one of them. Their visits, calls, and cards brought out her beautiful smile. Vi’s love embraced each of their friends, too. All of them knew and loved “Grandma Vi”.

Vi had a very special place in her heart for her younger sister, Kathleen Altobell, of Moorhead, MN. She loved spending time with her close friends, Jerry and Shirley Anderson and many loving neighbors and friends.

Twelve years after Bob’s death, Vi married George Rich of Aberdeen, SD in 2001. They loved fishing, gardening, and traveling. George died in 2005.
Vi’s work career spanned 60 years. She was a bank teller and secretary, a housekeeper at UND, and spent several years bringing a smile to many at the Walmart Snack Bar in Grand Forks.

Most of all, Vi was the very best Mom. She was loving, patient, kind, and filled with faith in God. She always thought the best of others and saw the good in them. She is a treasure to her family and will be greatly missed.

A private burial service will be held in Aberdeen, SD. Memorials may be given to Hospice of the Red River Valley or to Diocese of Fargo – TV Mass.