Vivian M. Bayer

On September 17, 2018, a long and beautiful life ended when Vivian Bayer passed at the age of 91. Dedicated to her Catholic faith, Vivian lived a life of dignity mixed with a good share of hearty laughter. She was born in Appleton on September 4, 1927, daughter of the late Harold and Gertrude (Hopfensperger) Jerke. She attended St. Joseph grade school and was a graduate of the Appleton High School, and on her twenty-first birthday in 1948, she married William Bayer at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Appleton. Bill preceded her in death in 1986.

Over the years, Vivian was employed as a secretary in the Outagamie County Clerk’s office. She was also a talented seamstress, and worked with brides at the Bridal Event in Appleton. Vivian will be remembered by all as a good listener and an honest, straight-shooter. She was always happy and joyful – her laugh was quickly recognized by all that knew and loved her. She was an active and lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Appleton. She served on the Parish and Family Life Committee at church and was also an expert at popping popcorn on Bingo nights. Some of her greatest joys came from attending her grandchildren’s performances and sporting events.

Vivian is survived by three daughters: Ann (Gary) Hoerning of Darboy; Barb Stadler of Appleton; and Trudy (Jens) Hauvn of Darboy. She was lovingly referred to as “Mum” by her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They include: Eric (Kristin) Stadler of Appleton, Michelle Hoerning of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Bryan (Nikki) Hoerning of Harrison, Andrea (Chris) Malnar of Appleton, and Krista (Josh) Theyel of Stevens Point. Her great-grandchildren are Nate and C.J. Wolfe, Austin and Addie Hoerning, Kate and Jake Stadler, and William and Vivian Malnar.

Vivian’s funeral liturgy will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, September 24, 2018 at ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH, 410 W. Lawrence Street in Appleton, with Fr. Jim Leary, OFM Cap. officiating. Interment will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church on Monday morning from 9:00 AM until the hour of the service. In lieu of flowers, Vivian would have wanted memorials to be directed to St. Joseph Parish. For more information or to share a memory of Vivian, please visit www.wichmannfargo.com.

The family would like to offer their sincere thanks to all of the staff and caregivers at Cherry Meadows Hospice. You are amazing. You treated our dear Mom as though she was your very own. Your kindness, tenderness, and compassion will always be remembered by our grateful family. Thank you again.