Vivian G. Benninger

Vivian Gloria Benninger, left this world on July 21, 2025, at the age of 97. Vivian was born on October 8, 1927, in Reeseville, Wisconsin, to the loving parents, Edwin and Edna (DeGroff) Buntrock. She lived a life filled with warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Vivian was united in marriage to Leonard C. Benninger on October 15, 1946, in Iowa. Their love story blossomed into a beautiful family, and together they nurtured their three children on their family farm. She also worked in the mail room at Perry Printing until she retired in 1990. Vivian was not only a devoted mother and grandmother; she also had a loyal canine companion, Lukie, who brought her comfort and companionship throughout her life. She embraced each day with optimism and joy, finding solace in her beloved pets and the love of her family. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Reeseville where she dedicated her time to serving her community. She took pride in her role as the church cleaner and lent a helping hand during chili and ham dinners. She enjoyed playing cards, especially the game of sheepshead, where she would often gather with friends and family for lively games filled with laughter. Dancing was a passion of hers; she adored polka music and embraced the joy of movement and rhythm. Vivian was also an avid gardener, finding peace and fulfillment in tending to her flowers and maintaining her lawn. Her garden was a reflection of her vibrant personality, filled with color and life, much like her approach to living.

Vivian is survived by her children, Ronald (Annette) Benninger of Reeseville, Barbara (Lawrence) Stangler of Waukesha, and Randy Benninger of Reeseville; grandchildren, John Benninger of Reeseville, Todd (Lora) Stangler of Brookfield, Teri (Jim) McArdel of Mequon and Abby (Chase) Davison of Willis, TX; great grandchildren, Emma and Leonard Benninger, Fritz Stangler, Ethan (Mara) Maricle, Carson, Cooper and Tripp Davison; a great-great granddaughter that’s on the way, Miley Maricle; other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Leonard; her parents; her brothers, Virgil and Harvey Buntrock; a granddaughter-in-law, Mandy Benninger; and a dear friend, Eugene “Duke” Stahnke.

Vivian’s family would like to thank the caring staff at Columbus Health and Rehab for all the love they have shown her during her time there.

A visitation will be at Trinity Lutheran Church in Reeseville from 10:00 a.m. until 10:50 a.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025. The funeral service will follow at the church on Monday with Rev. Douglas Bergelin officiating. Interment will be at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Reeseville.