A memorial visitation for Wilma will be held on Monday, June 18, 2018, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 2, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown. Memorials may be directed to either Peace United Church of Christ in Gladbrook or to the library of your choice. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Wilma and her family.

Wilma Bauerle was born on June 4, 1921, in Tama County. She was the middle child of Edward H and Theresa Karoline (Delfs) Bauerle. She graduated from Gladbrook High School in 1938 and was its last surviving member. Wilma was united in marriage to Clifford Sams on June 26, 1960, at the Beaman Methodist Church. To this union was born, Beth (John) Elshoff and Sarah Sams. Cliff and Wilma’s marriage also created a blended family with Judy (Arnie) Sohn, Paul (Cheryl) Sams and Brad (Jeanne) Johnson. Wilma was a house wife and helped Cliff on their farm. She was prolific in needle work and embroidered quilts and comforters for her children and grandchildren. Wilma also enjoyed reading and scrapbooking (before it was popular), writing letters and was the family historian. She had a lovely alto voice, and would sing in a duet at funerals and other occasions.

Wilma is survived by her husband of almost 58 years, Cliff. Children: Judy (Arnie) Sohn, Paul (Cheryl) Sams, Brad (Jeanne) Johnson, Beth (John) Elshoff and Sarah Sams. She is also survived by ten grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren with one on the way and her brother Merwin (Dorothy) Bauerle, of Eure, North Carolina as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Wilma is preceded in death by her sister Pauline Gethmann and two grandchildren.