Vera Luella Schlesinger, 97, of Mendota died November 19, 2014 at The Mendota Lutheran Home of natural causes.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 25, at St Johns Lutheran Church in Mendota, with Pastor Timothy Kenyon officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30-11:00a.m., in the church. Interment will be at Restland Cemetery in Mendota. Arrangements being handled by Merritt Funeral Home.

Vera was born January 6, 1917 in Mendota to Henry and Sadie (Arndt) Bieser. She married Marvin J. Schlesinger November 7, 1935 and they lived in Mendota. He preceded her in death on September 6, 1989.

She will be missed by her son Elwood (Ruth) Schlesinger of Scottsdale, AZ; sister Helen Sondgeroth of Mendota; seven grandchildren: Kim (Lynn) Schlesinger, Jane (Glenn) Faber, both of LaMoille, Gaye (Arlen) Molln of Rockford, Sandra (Curt Putzig) Schlesinger of Midland, MI, Randell Schlesinger of Chicago, Scot Schlesinger of East Lansing, MI; Kelly Payne of Amboy; thirteen great grandchildren; two great-great granddaughters; many nieces and nephews; and dear friend Ronnie Dickey of Mendota.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Marvin; son, Leon on August 10, 2013; daughter, Marilyn Payne on August 24, 1966; six brothers: Gilbert, Bill, Wes, Don, Dean, infant brother; three sisters: Marjorie, Gertrude, Beverly; and great-grandson, Trevor on October 24, 2009.

Vera was a homemaker who later worked at the A&P in Mendota, Il. She was an active member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Mendota, and positive contributor in the community. Her vast volunteer efforts include Project Neighborly Older Americans, the Mary Martha Circle of WELCA at St John's, and the Quilter's Guild at Mendota Baptist Church. An avid card player, Vera most enjoyed time with family and friends, and was a lifelong Cubs fan. She also enjoyed cooking and needlework.

Memorial donations may be directed to St. John's Lutheran Church or the Mendota Lutheran Home.