In Loving Memory of Lavon Lois (Schutte) Wirkler

Lavon Lois (Schutte) Wirkler, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on October 7, 1944, in Postville, Iowa, to Arnold and Ruth (Geno) Schutte, Lavon lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, unwavering love, and a heart that was always open to others.

To those who knew and loved her, she was many things: a devoted wife, "Mom," cherished "Nanny," beloved "Auntie Em," and "Momma Wirkler." No matter what name she answered to, each one reflected the love and comfort she brought into the lives of those around her.

Lavon's greatest love story began in high school when she met the love of her life, Allyn P. Wirkler. High school sweethearts, they married and built a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, adventure, and lasting memories. They enjoyed traveling the world together, and when their children, Scott and Barbara, came along, their greatest adventures became the precious family moments they created together.

Lavon was the proud and loving mother of Scott Wirkler and his wife, Beverly, and Barbara Moon and her husband, James. She found immeasurable joy in being a grandmother to Tyler Yates and his wife, Abby; Colby Yates and his wife, Samantha; Kristen Wirkler; and Mackenzie Wirkler. Her heart grew even fuller with the arrival of her treasured great-granddaughter, Callie Yates, who brought endless smiles to her life.

Lavon believed that family was life's greatest blessing. Whether preparing the holiday meals everyone looked forward to, celebrating milestones, or simply gathering around the table, she made every occasion feel special. Her kitchen was filled with delicious food, warm conversation, and unconditional love. She never seemed to know the word "no" and was always the first to volunteer whenever someone needed help. Whether driving a friend to an appointment, lending a helping hand, or serving faithfully at church on Sunday mornings, Lavon quietly and joyfully put others before herself.

She embraced life with enthusiasm and treasured the friendships she made along the way. Lavon was an active member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority for more than 15 years, the Red Hat Society, and the Arlington Women's Club. She loved bowling in her weekly league, dancing with Al whenever she had the chance, traveling, and making memories with those she loved most.

After the passing of her beloved husband of 31 years, Lavon was blessed to find companionship again with Ed Warren. Together they shared 19 wonderful years of friendship, travel, lively game nights with friends, and steadfast support for one another. Their time together was a treasured chapter in Lavon's life.

Lavon is survived by her loving children, Scott (Beverly) Wirkler and Barbara (James) Moon; her grandchildren Tyler (Abby) Yates, Colby (Samantha) Yates, Kristen Wirkler, and Mackenzie Wirkler; her great-granddaughter, Callie Yates; her brother-in-law, John Wirkler and his wife, Cindy; nephews Jeff Lange and his wife, Cindy, and Steve Lange and his wife, Vicki; nieces Julie Dahlen and her husband, Arnie, and Joni Deck and her husband, Doyle; along with many cherished great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Ruth Schutte; her husband, Allyn P. Wirkler; her special friend, Ed Warren; her sisters, Darlene Lange and her husband, Bennett, Marcene Schutte, and Rose Lee Schutte; and her brother-in-law, Neil Wirkler and his wife, Diane.

Though her family grieves her absence, they find comfort in knowing that Lavon's legacy lives on in every act of kindness she inspired, every tradition she created, every meal lovingly prepared, and every life she touched. She taught those around her the importance of loving generously, serving selflessly, and always making room for one more at the table. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and giving heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Lavon's life will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas 76013. Viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. A reception will immediately follow the service. A private family burial will be held afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to Homeward Bound Animal Rescue in honor of her beloved dog, Lobo, at 3209 C.R. 919, Burleson, Texas 76028.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shared in Lavon's life with love, friendship, prayers, and support. Her memory will forever remain a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know her.