Vivian Ainslie

Vivian Mae Ainslie, age 94, was called into her eternal home on Jan. 13, 2025, while residing at Pioneer Manor Nursing Home, Hay Springs, NE. Vivian was born on July 30, 1930 at St. Onge, SD to Emmett Glenn & Ayles (Blundell) Gowin. Vivian and her family lived in South Dakota, Wyoming and Nebraska while growing up. At one time the family lived on her Great Grandparents Iversen’s homestead south of Chadron.

Vivian attended school in Sundance (WY), Hemingford (NE) and graduated high school in Hay Springs in 1948. She met Walter Arthur Ainslie on a blind date and they were married on Sept. 19, 1948 in Chadron. They happily welcomed daughters Marcine Karen in 1950 and Glenda Jean in 1952. The family lived most of their life on the Otto Anderson farm southwest of Hay Springs. Vivian always had a large garden from which she happily shared the bounty she produced as well as canning hundreds of jars of veggies and fruit. Vivian also raised chickens. Her girls dreaded being awakened at dawn by her cheery voice saying, “Time to dress chickens.” Vivian was often in the fields and helping with other farm work. She was active in the VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries, two extension clubs and the Eastern Star. In later years she belonged to the United Methodist Church. Vivian was an excellent cook and frequently served guests her delicious foods. She enjoyed crocheting, embroidery, quilting and she sewed many clothes for herself and her daughters. After they moved to town, Vivian had a department store. Vivian had an incredible memory and could tell you whose birthday it was on any given day. She enjoyed playing cards and games with anyone. Her biggest joy was her family. Before residing at Pioneer Manor, she spent many hours playing cards with and visiting residents.

Vivian is survived by daughters Marcine (Gary) Peters of Bedford, TX and Glenda (Louis) Carlson, Hay Springs, grandchildren Michelle & Karla of Texas Brad of Alliance & Mandy of Hay Springs, 7 great grandchildren, sister Peggy (Louis) Fedler, sister-in-law Lillian Blomqiest and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be at the Hay Springs United Methodist Church on Thursday, January 23, 2:00 pm.