"I worked on projects with Wilma and Caroline Nees through the GFWC/Iowa Federation of Women?s Clubs. She was indeed a very classy lady and a great leader. She was a joy to spend time with. Wilma, Caroline, Sandy Phillips and I took a long road trip through Iowa on our way to South Dakota for a women?s club convention years ago. She was a very good sport. She will be missed.- Karen Martinek, Solon, Iowa"
In loving memory of
Wilma H. Groe
January 9, 1921 - December 28, 2018
Wilma H. Groe, 97, of Burlington, died Friday, December 28, 2018 at her residence.
Born January 9, 1921 in Northwood, Iowa, she was the daughter of Henry George and Minnie Florence (Conger) Neilandt. She married Kenneth Groe July 6, 1941 in Northwood, Iowa. He died January 3, 1985.
Wilma graduated from Northwood High School. During World War II, she was a real life "Rosie the Riveter" working on the B-29 assembly line at Boeing in Wichita, Kansas. She also worked as a self-employed bookkeeper for Ken's Skelgas and part-time as a sales clerk at Schramm's for 14 years.
Mrs. Groe was a member of First United Methodist Church.
She belonged to Burlington General Federation of Women's Club, PEO Chapter NI, King's Daughters, civic music, and various church circles.
Wilma enjoyed playing Bridge and in her retirement years, traveling the world with her husband Ken. She had a passion for music that began early in life. She played the French horn for Northwood High School's award winning band in 1936, and continued her love of music singing in the church choir for many years. Throughout her life Wilma was involved in all facets of Burlington arts, music and philanthropic organizations.
Survivors include nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, Chrystle White, Margaret Godfrey, Florence, Dale and Donald Neilandt; brother in laws; sister in laws; and special friend Judy Steward.
The funeral service for Mrs. Groe will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at First United Methodist Church. Rev. Melisa Bracht-Wagner and Mr. Gary Snider will officiate. Visitation will follow the service with a celebration of life at The Loft, 416 Jefferson Street, Burlington, IA. Graveside services and burial will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 3, 2019 at Sunset Rest Cemetery in Northwood, Iowa.
Memorials have been established for First United Methodist Church, Hope Haven and Burlington Art Guild.
Tributes
"She was a lovely lady."
"To the classiest of ladies and the kindest soul. We are who we are because of the people we meet along the way. You and Ken made a huge impact on my life when I was growing up. I will always carry that with me. Love you dear woman. I am thankful for our visits over the past 2 years and getting you and mom together for lunch. I am sure there was a party in heaven the minute you got there. Thank you for everything. "
"Wilma was an honorary member of our family for well over sixty years. She was allways there in time of need, offering support and encouragement. She was an elegant women full of kindness. Very grateful to have visited her recently. Barbara Sharp Zotz"