Juanita K Zeigler

Juanita Katherine Zeigler, age 87, passed away January 20, 2023 at the Wyandot County Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family. Born to Fred and Thelma Smith March 21, 1935 she enjoyed a long, full life. She became a young bride August 5, 1951 to Tom Zeigler; joining him at Lexington Park, MD near his Navy post. In 1956 they returned to Wyandot County where she helped Tom build their home. Those next years were filled raising beloved children, Tom (Darice), Brenda and Linda (Mike) Mosman. Juanita was and will always be, The Queen Mother <3

She was blessed to be proud Grandma to her much loved, Parker Mosman. (Dung Lam and wee Hoody). The pair of them in the kitchen always equaled a good time. Flour outlines of two little feet on the floor melted her heart, still years later, recalling it many times. Juanita beamed while sharing tales of his extensive world travel adventures and life accomplishments.  In her wry humor, claiming it to be a well-known fact that intelligence is passed down from the maternal grandmother.         

Blessings also came to her as 6 step grandchildren.  She was always happy to hear about their best lives:  Teena, Danny Jr., Emery (Lori) Baker and Kellie (Pat) Gabriel;  Michelle Bailey (Russ) and Steph Mosman (Bobby Taylor). Sweet, old holiday memories, prayers and sometimes gifts of maple syrup shared between them.

She was, “Aunt Juanita”, to a slew of special nieces and nephews that she always held dear in her heart. She loved to catch up, hear their tales and share some of her own. Gators to potato salad, the topics were always diverse, the laughter, plentiful.

Later she drove bus for Upper Sandusky Schools, retiring after 20 years peppered with memorable riders, icy roads and foggy mornings.  An avid baker, she taught others how to make cinnamon rolls, pastry wreaths and cookies;  keeping Tom busy delivering goods to happy recipients.  Many Summers found her as swimming instructor at 4-H camp Conger. Many more were spent at Harrison Smith Park pool teaching Red Cross swimming lessons.  Juanita was thankful for dear life-long friends (too numerous to mention and not miss any) being made along the journey.  They brought her so much joy.  If she loved you, you knew it.

Juanita and Tom spent many wonderful vacations at Lake Erie and later, at Wells Beach, ME.  After being introduced to that area by dear friend Edith Myers, lazy walks on the beach, outlet shopping and lobsters for days were happy memories. In more recent years, contentedly sitting outdoors on a bench he made, enjoying a beautiful day at home together was all she needed. Juanita often credited Tom for taking such wonderful care of her, making it possible for her to stay in their home until very recently.

A 64 year member of First Lutheran Evangelical Church, Juanita had belonged to the choir, Ever Faithful Class and assisted with funeral dinners for several years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, in-laws (Frank) Earl and Bea Zeigler and her seven siblings: Fred, Ray, Ernie, Denver, Nellie Snyder, Doris Martin and Jack Smith. 

Many heartfelt thanks to: Dr. Conklin for thoughtful care and guidance; the ever giving staff at Wyandot Memorial Hospital, Wyandot County EMS,  Wyandot County Home,  Hospice of Wyandot Memorial and Pastor Kathy Shuck.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held May 6, 2023 at First Lutheran Evangelical Church, Upper Sandusky; the time to be announced at a later date.  The family asks for casual dress, please.

Please honor Juanita in love and joy ~ donations may be made to Hospice of Wyandot Memorial or the Activities Fund at Wyandot County Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and can be sent to Lucas-Baton, 476 S. Sandusky Avenue Upper Sandusky, Oh 43351.

On-line condolences can be sent to www.lucasbatton.com.

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