Wanita LATSON

22 MAR 1938 - 21 JUL 2010

• BIRTH: 22 MAR 1938, South Bend, St Joseph, IN
• DEATH: 21 JUL 2010, South Bend, St Joseph, IN

INDEX

[N28233] Wanita Mae Latson Niemier

BIRTH 22 Mar 1938
South Bend, St. Joseph County, IN

DEATH 21 Jul 2010 (aged 72)
South Bend, St. Joseph County, IN

BURIAL
Highland Cemetery
South Bend, St. Joseph County, IN
MEMORIAL ID 55309356

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Wanita Mae Niemier, 72, of South Bend, passed away at 5:10 pm Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at home surrounded by family and friends. Wanita was born on March 22, 1938 in South Bend to the late Warren and Clarice (Van Hulle) Latson, and has remained a lifelong resident. She married Robert A. Niemier, who preceded her in death in 1979. She was also preceded in death by a son, Thomas Niemier, and a sister, Judith Weaver. At a young age she was told that polio would prevent her from ever walking. As those who knew her well can attest, telling her she couldn't do something almost guaranteed she would do it. Mom was one of the earliest polio patients at the Shriner's Hospital for Children whom she credits for enabling her to walk. She went on to show her gratitude by becoming a nurse. First at Memorial Hospital then South Bend Osteopathic Hospital, she shared her deep compassion and love of people for over fifty years. But it was motherhood that defined her life. After being told she could not have children, she went on to raise four wonderful children, grieving the loss of another. She could not have been prouder of her children. Her pride only grew with the births of her grandchildren and great grandchildren each of whom brought delight to her life. Wanita redefined family, friend and neighbor. She was one of the most giving people you could ever meet. Her home was always filled with the laughter of family and friends, including during her final weeks.
She was known for being crazier than her kids and cheering louder than anyone at baseball games, wrestling matches, football games and every activity involving her grandchildren. In Heaven, she now dances, just another thing she was told she couldn't do. Wanita is survived by her children, Carol L. (Michael) Barrell of Columbia City, IN, Robert "Bob" (Lara) Niemier of South Bend, IN, William "Bill" (Michelle) Niemier of New Palestine, IN, and Michelle (D.D.) Hudnall of South Bend, IN; ten grandchildren, Jessica, Christopher, Robbie, Heather, Geoff, Katie, Conner, Michael, Sarah and Tommy; and five great grandchildren, Joey, Nolan, Isabella, Madelyn and Jayce. She is also survived by two brothers, Richard (Lulu) Latson of South Bend, IN and Warren "Butch" (Aileen) Latson of Phoenix, AZ; and her niece, Pam Kulpa, as well as several other nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday, July 24, 2010 at Palmer Funeral Home-River Park, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, with Rev. Larry Baker from First Brethren Church officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery in South Bend. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 - 8:00 P.M. Friday, July 23, 2010 at the funeral home. Contributions in memory of Wanita may be made to The Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Avenue, Chicago, IL 60707. Online condolences may be offered to the Niemier family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.