Vera Merideth

Vera Merideth, 84, of Columbus, passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at Willow Crossing Health and Rehabilitation Center. Vera was born in Poland on May 13, 1940 to Ignacy and Olga Zieleniuk. She married Kennith L. Merideth on November 18, 1978. Vera's early years were marked by the challenges of war and displacement, where her parents were forced to make parts for the war. Her life was a testament to the power of hope and the human spirit. As a child, Vera found solace in the enchanting Black Forest, a place that would remain dear to her throughout her life. In 1951, at the tender age of 11, she voyaged to the United States through Ellis Island, later in life she became a member of the Ellis Island Foundation, honoring the passage of many to the land of opportunity. Vera's career spanned an impressive 38 years at Kroger Supermarket, where she was not only a dedicated employee but also a cherished colleague. Her work ethic and commitment to service left an indelible mark on the community and her peers. Vera's passion for her career was matched only by her love for her family and her heritage, as she maintained close ties with her relatives in Belarus throughout her life. Fluent in an array of languages, including Polish, Ukrainian, Russian, Yugoslavian, and English, Vera was a bridge between cultures. She used her linguistic talents to connect with others and to pen writings in both Polish and Ukrainian, sharing her experiences and preserving her heritage. Vera's interests were as varied as her language skills. She was an avid visitor of flea markets, always on the lookout for hidden treasures and unique finds. Her hands were skilled in the art of needlepoint, creating intricate designs that were as much a hobby as they were expressions of her love for handcrafted beauty. Her love for the natural world was evident in the care she lavished on her flowers and fruit trees. The beauty of her garden was a testament to her patience and nurturing spirit. One of her most cherished activities was going on mushroom hunts in the company of her son Mark. These excursions were more than just a pastime; they were cherished moments of bonding and adventure. She enjoyed the joyful presence of her beloved Pomeranian dogs, who were a source of endless affection and companionship. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, December 23, 2024 at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Pastor Stacey Tucker officiating. Calling hours will be from noon on Monday until service time. Burial will be held at Garland Brook Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or American Cancer Society. Survivors include her husband, Kennith L. Merideth; daughters, Sondra (Leonard) Bennett and Cheryl Mitchell both of Shelby County, IN; 5 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Anna Zieleniuk and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Norman Burton in 1968; sons, Mark Burton, Randall Joe Merideth; granddaughter, Kelly Strange; brother, John Zieleniuk and son-in-law, Boyd Mitchell.