Viola Jean Kivisto

Viola Jean Kivisto (Rappley) was born October 25, 1933 in Chicog, WI, and passed away December 17, 2019 in Oak Park Heights, MN. at the age of 86.

Vi was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She had a spirit of fun and adventure throughout her life. She loved gardening, camping, traveling, dancing, and spending time with friends and family. When Vi’s husband Duane died suddenly in 1979, through the grief she also found new strength and independence. She continued her successful cosmetics sales career at Glass Block in Duluth and Herbergers in the Twin Cities. After retirement, she built a house in Trego, WI which became a special destination for her grandchildren. Vi also spent winters in Texas, Arizona and New Mexico.  In the south, she especially enjoyed trips into Mexico and meeting fellow travelers.

Viola is survived by her two children, Allen Kivisto (spouse Shelly) and Cynthia Kivisto (spouse Michael Orth); siblings Lawrence  Rappley, Shirley Brooks, and Mary Kosharek; grandchildren Jamie Kivisto, Erik Kivisto, and Sean Kivisto; and four great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by husband Duane, and siblings William Rappley, Vernon Rappley, and Lucille Stodola.

Private burial at St. Matthews Cemetery in Esko, MN.  A celebration of life will be held later this summer.