Ramona Kathryn ( O’Malley) Wifvat, our beloved mother, died Feb. 16, 2015 in Omaha, Neb., surrounded by her family.
Ramona was born on Feb. 24, 1924 to Raymond and Margaret ( Pendy) O’Malley. She and her sisters, Eileen and Virginia, were raised on the family farm in Bouton, Iowa. She studied dance with Betty Mae Harris, was editor of the Patrician at St. Patrick’s High School and graduated Valedictorian of her class in 1942.
While working at Ray B. Smith Drug Store, she met a dashing, young man, Van Wifvat. They were married at St. Matthew’s Cathedral on Oct. 5, 1942 in Washington D.C., where Ramona was working for the government. . They enjoyed their years together and were not apart except when Van served in World War II.
Judge Van Wifvat preceded her in death on April 6, 1989.
Ramona and Van raised nine children together. Both of them believed in travel, education, wonderful holiday celebrations, special birthday times, joyful times with friends, laughter and affection openly expressed. They respected the uniqueness of each of their children.
Ramona was a friend to anyone who needed a friend. She enjoyed her Bridge Club, Regina Guild, PEO and The Beautification of Perry Committee and Toastmistresses. She enjoyed dinners at the Elks’ Club and Country Club.
Ramona loved being a grandmother and great-grandmother and being present for the many special occasions afforded by her large family. She was a devote Catholic and a strong supporter of St. Patrick’s Church in Perry
Ramona Wifvat was a consummate lady who had lovely manners and a sweet, ready smile.
For the past eight years, Ramona lived in Omaha at Lakeside Village in order to be near Cherie and Larry Garrett, and she was fortunate to have their children and eight great-grandchilden, whose company she dearly treasured at Lakeside. While at Lakeside Ramona participated in Red Hats, bridge, choir, book club, and became a Husker’s fan.
Ramona will be remembered as a gentle, generous, kind and loving lady. Her loving Irish spirit will live with us forever.
Survivors include her children: Cherie (Larry) Garrett, Candace Dietz, Christina (Jimmy) Gammell, Kevan Wifvat, Virginia (Dick) Rost, Colleen Wifvat (Dr. Steve Kelso), Lori (Richard) Talboy, Van Gregory Wifvat and Mark Wifvat; twenty-two grandchildren; and thirty-five great-grandchildren. Many other relatives, friends and wonderful caregivers further survive.
The Mass of the Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24 at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Fr. Paul Nyugen and Fr. Ray Higgins officiating. Burial will be in Violet Hill Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, with the family receiving friends from 5-7:00 p.m. and a Rosary at 7 p.m., all at Murdock Funeral Home.
A memorial has been established in her name and may be left or sent to the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at murdockfuneralhome.net
