Vera Irene (Summers) Zigler

Vera Irene Zigler, 91 years old, passed away peacefully on May 29 in Charleston, IL. She was born on New Years Day in 1933 to Harry Givens Summers Jr. and Lillie Ellen (Crum) Summers in Hancock County, IL.

Vera lived a long life and will be welcomed home by many family and friend's wo preceded her in death. Preceding her in death are her parents, Harry and Lillie Summers, her husband, Ralph Zigler, her son, Kenneth Ralph Zigler, and her siblings, Clarence G. Summers, Nina B. Johnson, Opal R. Dodds, Nellie M. Cummings, Dorothy I. Holmes, Melvin J. Summers, B. Joline Summers, Harry E. Summers, Peggy L. Andrews, and Patricia L. York. Vera is survived by her grandson, Jamie (Nicole) and great-grandson, Julian, and her grandson, Zachary. She is also survived by numerous nieces/nephews, great nieces/nephews, cousins and many friends, including Aletha and Lupe, whom she loved like family.

Vera married her husband Ralph on March 25, 1953, in Illinois and they had a son together. The family moved to Arizona and spent many years there. Vera grew to love Arizona's people and culture. In 2016, Vera made the decision to leave Benson, AZ and move to the Hilltop Nursing Home in Charleston, IL to reconnect with family. While living in Charleston, Vera and her niece Ellen, attended family get togethers, community events and church together. They were often joined by Ivy, Ellen's dog and Vera's buddy, on their outings.

Vera found joy in simple pleasures, beautiful stones, sunny days, good music, an interesting book, great food, bingo games, help picking out a gift, and comfortable clothes. She also enjoyed splurging on the occasional chocolate truffle, doughnuts, and milkshakes now and then. Vera appreciated getting a little extra attention to her hair and nails, even though she couldn't see them. Despite her loss of vision, she cherished vivid verbal descriptions that allowed her to envision the world around her. she listened to a massive number of audiobooks. She shared pictures and talked about the decor in her room. She even engaged in conversations about newer technology. What Vera appreciated the most was the people in her life, so she would talk about who painted her nails or who picked out a new outfit for her or who brought her favorite food. The family would like to give a special thanks to the past and present staff of Hilltop, many of whom she called friends and the staff at Transitions Care for the exceptional hospice care provided.

Vera will be missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. In lieu of a formal service, the family will be holding private remembrances in their respective locations. Per Vera's wishes, her cremains will be reunited with those of her beloved Ralph.

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