Viola A. Reinhart
NEW ULM–Viola A. Reinhart, age 97 of rural New Ulm died peacefully at her farm surrounded by her family on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Ulm. Father Mark Steffl will celebrate the Mass, and burial will follow in the New Ulm Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday and continue from 9-10:30 a.m on Wednesday all at the M.innesota Valley Funeral Home-North Chapel in New Ulm. To leave an online condolence for her family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org
Viola is survived by her daughters, Carol (Glen) Schmid of New Ulm, Lois (Larry) Siem of St. James, Colleen (Darcey) Bauman of Mankato, Janet (Bob) Brunner of New Ulm; her 14 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Melvin “Bitsy” Reinhart in 2017; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Herbie (Mabel) Hoffmann, Harley (LaVonne) Hoffmann; her foster son, Carl Thedens; and her Godchildren, Aaron Thedens, and Andy Bauer.
Viola Apolina Hoffmann was born May 21, 1928, in Lafayette Township, Nicollet County, to Albert and Ann (Brey) Hoffmann. Growing up on the farm, Viola attended country grade school and learned early the value of hard work, faith, and family. She was united in marriage to Melvin “Bitsy” Reinhart on September 1, 1948, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm. This union blessed the couple with four daughters and a foster son, whom together they raised on their farm in rural New Ulm. Viola worked from home as a loving and dedicated mother and farm wife, tending to the countless daily tasks that farm life required. After her children were grown, she worked for several years at Windings in New Ulm, where she enjoyed keeping busy and visiting with co-workers.
Beyond her work, Viola had a creative spirit and a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed crafts and crossword puzzles, often spending quiet evenings keeping her hands and mind active. Her flower gardens were a source of pride where she always found peace while working. She loved listening to old time music, with the familiar tunes often filling her home. Viola generously shared her artistic talents with others, lovingly creating handmade flowers for weddings and adding a special touch to many meaningful celebrations.
Her greatest joy in life was always her family. Viola treasured time spent with her children and especially her grandchildren, whether it was gathering for holidays, attending events, or simply sitting together visiting. Those moments meant everything to her. Her faith was the foundation of her life. Viola was a devout and dedicated member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Ulm, where she remained steadfast in prayer and service throughout the years. Viola will be remembered for her quiet strength, steady presence, and the deep love she shared with her family. Blessed be her memory.
A special thank you is extended from the family to all of the ladies who helped take care of mom these last months.

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