Vira Grace Amende

December 17, 1920 – January 5, 2026

Age 105

Vira Grace Amende passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at Bridgeview Estates, surrounded by her loving family, having lived a remarkable 105 years. She was born on December 17, 1920, in Selden, Kansas, to Clinton Lorenzo Russell and Minnie Josephine Hanson. She moved to Idaho with her sister Eva after graduating high school, where Vira would ultimately build a life defined by service, resilience, and lifelong learning.

During World War II, Vira answered the call of her country, working as a “Rosie the Riveter,” contributing to the war effort with strength and determination. After returning to Idaho, she met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Amende. The two were married on March 26, 1948, in Twin Falls, Idaho, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned decades.

Vira held a deep belief in the value of education and personal growth. At the age of 48, she returned to college and earned her bachelor’s degree in education, a testament to her perseverance and commitment to learning. She went on to teach first grade at both Washington Elementary and Sawtooth Elementary, where she touched the lives of countless students with patience, kindness, and encouragement.

In later years, Vira and Bob enjoyed spending many winters in Mesa, Arizona, where they embraced warmer days and cherished time together.

Vira was preceded in death by her parents, her nine siblings, and her beloved son, Jack Walter Amende.

She is survived by her daughter, Jeri (Gary) Robbins of Mesa, Arizona; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of strength, compassion, and devotion to family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM (MT) at Bridgeview Estates Assisted Living, located at 1828 Bridgeview Blvd, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below.