Myrtle Vierheller

Myrtle P. “Myrt” Vierheller, nee Cortner, 99, of Belleville, IL, born August 12, 1926, in Hecker, IL, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at her residence with her daughter by her side.

Myrt devoted her early years to being a homemaker, lovingly raising her children and creating a home filled with love and support. She also gave generously of her time as a weekly Red Cross volunteer at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. After her children were grown, Myrt continued her service there, working part-time in the X-ray and Pediatrics departments until her retirement in 1989. She was a proud member of St. Teresa’s Catholic Church and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary 7980 in Millstadt.

Above all else, Myrt’s greatest passion was her family and friends. She especially cherished her monthly poker games with her lifelong friends, a tradition filled with laughter, camaraderie, and friendly competition. She found peace and joy tending to her flower gardens, taking pride in their beauty and sharing them with others. A devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan, Myrt rarely missed a game and always cheered enthusiastically for her beloved Cardinals. She also enjoyed bowling and the friendships that came with it.

True to her nature, Myrt never met a stranger. She was a true social butterfly, remembered for her kind heart, warm smile, and the way she made everyone feel welcome.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 69 1/2 years, James E. Vierheller, whom she married on July 30, 1949, in Belleville, IL, and who died on January 16, 2019; a son, Bruce J. Vierheller, who died on June 13, 2022; her parents, Edward and Emelie, nee Schoenborn, Cortner; a brother, Vernon Cortner; and a sister, Valeda Gaubatz.

Surviving are a daughter, Nancy Ann McNay; a daughter-in-law, Catherine Vierheller; a “bonus daughter”, Karen Pfeffer Schwarze; nieces; nephews; many great-nieces and great-nephews; great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; and great-great-great-nieces and great-great-great-nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or the Belleville Area Humane Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Funeral: Private family services will be held.

Private burial will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

Obit Provided By:
Renner Funeral Home