ST. LOUIS, FORMERLY OF APPLE VALLEY, CA –
Vera (Reed) Button, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on May 3, 2023, at the age of 89. Vera was born on July 29th, 1933, in Mathiston, Mississippi, to Alvin and Florence Banman. She grew up in Centralia, Kansas on her parents’ dairy farm. She attended Kansas State University, where she graduated in 1954. Her career began as a Home Economist for Public Service of Indiana and later, for Purdue University. A few years later, she earned her teaching credential and taught Home Economics at Mitchell High School in Mitchell, Indiana. She earned her Master’s in Education from Indiana University in 1971. She went on to teach at Hesperia Junior High School after moving to California in 1978. Her love for teaching and dedication to her students earned her a reputation as a caring and inspiring teacher.
Vera is predeceased by husband Wayne Button, brother Alvin Banman Jr., and daughter Lou Ellen Forrer. Vera is survived by her children, Kristie (Bruce) Arnn, Kurt (Emily) Boller, and Ben (Lisa) Boller, and her sister, Ellen Samuelson as well as ten nieces and nephews. Vera was also a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Vera was a Christian, a kind and caring person. She had a passion for clothes, making them and wearing them! She won the Kansas State Dress Review in 1952. The grand prize of which, was a trip to 4-H Club Congress in Chicago, IL. She enjoyed cooking and setting the perfect table. Vera was also an avid traveler and loved exploring new places and meeting new people.
A graveside service will be scheduled this summer in Topeka, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kansas State University Foundation. Vera will be deeply missed by her family and friends. May she rest in peace.