Viola Dierks

Viola (Vi) Dierks died on July 2, 2016 at the age of 100, in her home in Pelham Manor, N.Y.

Vi was born in the Bronx on January 8, 1916 to Sophia and Robert Braniss. She married "her Gus" on January 20th, 1939, and their "love affair" lasted until his death on March 12, 1983.

Vi and Gus were blessed with a son, Kenneth and a daughter, Virginia. Their lives were once again enriched with a "daughter" Joyce and a "son" Peter. They cherished their 5 grandchildren Jeffrey (Dierks) and Brian (his wife Michal), Michael (his wife Julie), and Jennifer (Ricca). Completing their love were their 5 great grandchildren, Jake (Dierks) Jack, Lucas, Patrick and Brendan (Ricca).

Vi lived in Pelham Manor for 63 years, and there she created a wonderful life for herself and so many others. She was very active in her beloved Community Church – The Pelhams, as a faithful parishioner and supporter of their ministries. Vi volunteered for over 50 years at Sound Shore Medical Center where she made friends in every department she worked in, and beyond. She also served in soup kitchens in New Rochelle and Mt. Vernon.

Vi was an accomplished bowler and golfer at Pelham Country Club, as well as bridge player with her favorite partner, Peg Spath. She loved to sing, dance, play the piano, and the ukulele.

Vi's handiwork was amazing in tatting, crocheting, needlepoint and knitting. At Christmas time, she made over 100 Christmas tree decorations, all of which were lovingly given to others.

There will be a celebration of her life in September, at The Community Church - The Pelhams. Vi asked that donations be made in her memory to either Community Church-The Pelhams, 448 Washington Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803 or Cancer Support Team, 2900 Westchester Avenue, Purchase, NY 10577.