Violet "Vi" M. Neil-Steinwand

Violet “Vi” M. (Salo) Neil-Steinwand, 94 of Ellendale, ND died Saturday, January 14, 2012 at Price of Peace Care Center, Ellendale. Vi was born July 24, 1917, on the family farm in LaMoure County, ND. She was the daughter of John and Hilma (Wihela) Salo. Vi was confirmed at Savo Finnish Lutheran Church July 3, 1932 and educated at rural schools in LaMoure County. After her education she worked as a nanny for various families in the Ellendale area. On November 14, 1936, Vi married Herb Neil at Zion Lutheran Church, Ellendale. After their marriage, they farmed in Dickey County, ND until January, 1954 at which time they opened the Circle Bar in Ellendale. In 1973 they sold their business. In 1976 Vi began working as a dietary aide at the Ellendale Hospital. She worked at the American Legion Club from 1978-1991 at which time she retired. Herb died June 2, 1982. On May 30, 1998, Vi married Alex A. Steinwand at Zion Lutheran Church, Ellendale. They made their home in Ellendale until Vi entered Prince of Peace Care Center on October 29, 2010. Vi was a member of Zion Lutheran Church since 1940, the LWML, a 50-year member of the Herman-Schlenker Ladies Legion Auxiliary of Ellendale, a previous member of the American Legion Drill Team, a previous member of the Ellendale Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and a homemakers club. She enjoyed entertaining, cooking, baking, gardening and flowers. She especially loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Survivors include her husband Alex Steinwand, Ellendale, ND; one son Bob Neil, Great Falls, MT; one daughter: Faye (Chuck) Reimers, Detroit Lakes, MN; one step-son Tim (Lori) Steinwand, Ellendale, ND; two grandchildren: Doug (Darci) Neil, Great Falls, MT, Michelle (Mark) Anderson, Eden Prairie, MN, four great grandchildren: Witne and Kody Neil, Great Falls, MT, Carter and Brock Anderson, Eden Prairie, MN and two great-great grandchildren: Cerek Krug and Kayden Neil both of Great Fall, MT; numerous sisters-in-law, many nieces and nephews. Vi was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Herb, one grandson: Neil Charles Reimers; four brothers: Edwin, Emil, Jake and Dick Salo; four sisters: Julia Rowe, Mayme Bailer, Hilda Higby and Lila Mead. The funeral service is 10:30am January 18 at Zion Lutheran Church, Ellendale with Pastor Tyson Labuhn officiating. The soloist is Tim Steinwand and organist will be Marilyn Burow. Visitation is 3-7pm Tuesday with a prayer service at 7pm Tuesday with Pastor Tyson Labuhn officiating and Katie Miller as organist at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Casket Bearers are: Bill Rowe, Carol Erickson, Susan Roehl, Mike Mead, Ellis Nell, Craig Nell, Mark Anderson and Doug Neil. Burial is at Ellendale City Cemetery. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale. Memorials may be sent to: Macular Degeneration Foundation PO Box 531313 Henderson, NV 89053 Alzheimer's Association 4357 13th Ave SW Suite 23 Fargo, ND 58103