Viola Umstead

Viola H. Umstead passed away at the age of 97 Years old on January 6, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona. She was born on March 16, 1924 to Leslie and Ruth Bradford in Long Prairie, Minnesota. She was one of five children. During WWII Viola and her family moved to Vanport, Oregon to help build Liberty Ships. It was there that she met her future husband, Lyden Umstead. They were married on January 1, 1945. After the war, Viola and Lyden moved to Eagle Grove where they raised three children. 

Viola was a lady of considerable and varied talents; arts, crafts, music, etc. Hobbies included fishing with friends, reading and home décor. She was very involved in activities with the United Methodist Church. After her husband of over 51 years, Lyden Umstead, passed away in 1996 she moved to Tucson, Ariz. to be close to her son and daughter. She enjoyed the sunshine and warmth of Arizona, continued to enjoy church activities with the St. Paul’s Methodist Church, went sightseeing and traveled.

Viola is survived by children: Sharon (Umstead) Brinkert of St. Louis, Missori, Kimberly Umstead of Tucson, Ariz. and Craig Umstead of Tucson, Ariz. She is also survived by her son-in-law Ronald Brinkert and grandchildren Ryan, Jessica and Pamela.

She had nine great-grandchildren and one great great-grandchild. She retained fond memories of three remaining sisters-in-laws and her nieces and nephews. She was a loving and caring mother and will be greatly missed.