Wilma Lee Schondelmeyer

Wilma Schondelmeyer, 80, Independence, MO died September 24, in her home as she wished. Wilma was born in Chula, MO the third child of Harry Lee and Althea Wilma Fell Siegrist, A German farming family in northern Missouri. She grew up in Meadville, MO as one of five Siegrist children of which only Camilla, the oldest survives. She worked for the U.S. Army Signal Corps during World War II and returned to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia. There she began writing soldiers serving abroad, one of which was William Lee Schondelmeyer who she married June 6, 1947 in Columbia, MO. He became a veterinarian and the couple moved to Independence, MO where they spent their adult lives, active in their church and community and raising a family. The couple had three children Dana, Brent, and Mary. Wilma helped her husband establish Schondelmeyer Animal Hospital and was active in the practice until his death in 1968. She subsequently worked for different businesses until she retired as a school secretary in the Independence School District. Wilma was a practical, caring, and compassionate woman who embraced both her neighbors, family, community, and church, but the larger world as well. Besides her sister, three children and other in-laws, she is survived by five grandchildren: Mariam and Amanda Abounoum, Marrakech, Morocco (Dana�s daughter); and Justin, Lauren and Evan Ragan (Mary�s children). The family included in-laws Ahmed Abounoum; Lee Williams; and Tom Ragan. She was much loved by her many Siegrist and Schondelmeyer family relatives and a cherished friend to others. Wilma requested, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to First Christian Church of Independence, Cancer Action, of Kansas City Hospice. Visitation will be Sunday from 7-9:00 pm Sunday at Speaks Suburban Chapel. Funeral services will be Monday at 10:00 am at First Christian Church on Independence followed by burial at Salem Cemetery, Independence.