After a long goodbye, the heavenly angels welcomed Lois Wiltz, 81 on February 25, 2024. She peacefully passed in Hiawatha, Kansas at The Pines surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and warmth that touched so many lives. She had the kindest heart and was liked by everyone who met her.
Lois Ann Buessing was born in Axtell, Kansas on April 20, 1942 to Louis and Amelia Buessing. She loved growing up with her family on the farm, but she hated taking care of the chickens. She graduated from Baileyville High School in 1960. The same year a young man visited the Buessing farm to get some eggs. This encounter with Virgil Wiltz resulted in marriage on May 6, 1961. Virgil always said he went to get eggs but ended up with a chick.
Lois opened Lois’ Western Store in the 1970’s. She sold that business and worked for Barb’s Western Wear. Her lifelong job was as a homemaker, which she excelled at. After the daughters were grown, Lois partnered with her daughter Debbie to open Just For You Jewelry & Gifts in downtown Hiawatha. She loved visiting with people and wearing jewelry.
Mom and Grandma were the titles most important to Lois. She treasured moments with her 3 daughters, 3 grandsons, 3 granddaughters, and 4 great-grandchildren. She was the family mediator and would do anything for her family. She loved shopping with her daughters and making cookies with the grandkids.
Before dementia stole her mind and body, Lois was very active and enjoyed life to the fullest. She loved Kansas basketball. It is a miracle that a television never had to be replaced as she was very passionate about the Jayhawks. She always enjoyed scrabble, crossword puzzles, fishing, walking, adult coloring, and spending time with family and friends.
Lois was a member of the St. Ann Catholic Church in Hiawatha, Kansas. She served on the Funeral Committee for 39 years. She enjoyed becoming friends with her committee members, and she was devoted to helping families at a very difficult time.
Lois will be greatly missed by her husband Virgil of 62 years. Daughters Brenda (Tim) Schuetz, Charlie Wiltz, and Debbie (Randy) Phillips, all of Hiawatha. Grandchildren Matt Stephenson, Samantha (Cody) Ward, Chris Jones, Jeremy (Mandy) Schuetz. LeAnn (Luke) Wampler, and Rachel Phillips. Great-Grandchildren Reed Wampler, Raelynn Schuetz, Madison Ward, and Landen Davis. Lois is also survived her sister Mary Ann (Bob) Banks, brother Arlan (Shirley) Buessing, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Lois will be welcomed in heaven by her parents Louis and Amelia Buessing, siblings Althea Kuhn and Marciel Wagner, and great-granddaughter Pacey Stephenson.
Special thanks to the staff at The Pines of Hiawatha for the care provided to Lois the last 3 ½ years and NEK Hospice.
Friends may sign register book at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha after 10 am Thursday.
A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Ann Church, Hiawatha, Kansas officiated by Father Dan Gardner on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 10 am. A rosary will be recited on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 6:30 pm at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home followed by a family visitation. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Ann Catholic Church or Alzheimer’s Association sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S. 7th St., Hiawatha, KS 66434.
A special message may be left with the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com.
