Viola Helena Sammons

Viola Helena Sammons was born March 4, 1927 in Opheim, Montana, to Peter and Helena Stein. She passed away October 10, 2021, in Sandpoint after contracting COVID-19.

Even though she was vaccinated, she succumbed to the disease due to her age. The family would like to encourage all unvaccinated people to please get vaccinated, especially if you are a health care worker.

Viola was one of 16 children. She said she was teased unmercifully when she started school because she couldn't speak a word of English. Her family spoke only German at home. When Viola was 12 years old her mother died, leaving behind children ranging in age from 2 to in their 20s. At a very young age Viola had the responsibilities of cooking, cleaning and caring for her younger siblings, along with her other sisters.

When she was 20 years old she married Fordie Lewis. They had two children, Craig and Cary Lee. They later divorced and Viola moved to Sandpoint with her two young children where she met and married Ed Sammons. They had one daughter, Lea.

Vi spent her remaining years in Sandpoint, enjoying cooking for her family, gardening and her little dog Fritz.

She is survived by her children, Craig Lewis of Sandpoint, Cary Jackson of Gardnerville, Nevada, and Lea Sammons of Sandpoint; one sister, Gladys Nave of Kootenai; and four grandchildren, Heidi Ketron, Jacinda Bokowy, Kelly Jackson and Kevin Lewis; 12 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews including David (Carol) Gilson of Sagle. She was preceded in death by her parents, 14 siblings; ex-husband and longtime companion, Ed Sammons; and one great-grandson, Cory Jackson.

No services will be held at this time.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Viola's online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign her guest book.