Zola Alder Schlerf, 95, of Nampa, Idaho passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 7, 2014. Zola was born November 8, 1918 in Leavitt, Alberta, Canada, the sixth child of Albert Hyrum and Annie Wilson Alder. In 1920, her family relocated to Weiser, Idaho to begin a new life on a 20 acre farm. Zola had many fond memories of life on the farm and the time spent with her brothers and sisters. Zola graduated from Weiser High School in 1937 and attended Boise Business College. She loved college and it was during this time that she met and fell in love with Don Schlerf. She and Don were married on June 10, 1940 for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. After nine years of moves to support Don's commitments to the Navy and other employment, they built their home on Florence Street in Nampa. Zola lived in that home for over 50 years. They were blessed with three children: Ron, Karen and Monte. Don and Zola acquired the Stone Lumber Company from Bert and Marie Stone in 1968. From that time forward, Zola and Don worked side-by-side to build a successful and well- respected business in Nampa. In 1978 Don retired due to health concerns. Zola and Don enjoyed spending time at their cabin in Cascade. They spent many wonderful days fishing, riding 3-wheelers, boating and exploring the great outdoors. They made the cabin a special place that holds many fond memories for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Zola served willingly and faithfully in many capacities among the youth of the church. She also served as a temple ordinance worker in the Boise Idaho LDS Temple with her husband for seven years. After his passing, she continued to serve in the temple for an additional 13 years. Surrounded by many friends and family members, Zola and Don celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on June 10, 1990. After Don's passing the following year, Zola found great happiness in being with her children and grandchildren. She thrived as a grandma and always gave each holiday or family gathering her extra special touch. She made each grandchild feel special and was often found cheering them on at ball games, recitals, graduations, mission farewells, weddings, baby blessings and baptisms. Zola is survived by her sister, Alta Stettler of Orem, UT; her children: Ron (Jan) Schlerf of Spokane, WA, Karen Kotter of Nampa, ID and Monte (Melissa) Schlerf, also of Nampa, ID; 14 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her brothers: Sheldon, Arlo, DeWane, and Lamont Alder; her sister, Louise; her son-in-law, Roger Kotter; and two great-granddaughters, Samantha Schlerf and Katie Mae Kotter. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 11, at the LDS Chapel located at 607 W. Locust Lane in Nampa. A viewing will be held at the church from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the services. Interment will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Caldwell. Arrangements are being provided by Zeyer Funeral Chapel, Nampa. 467-7300. Condolences may be expressed at zeyerfuneralchapel.com. Service: Saturday, October 11, 2014 11:00 a.m. LDS Chapel at 607 W. Locust Lane Nampa, Idaho Visitation: Saturday, October 11, 2014 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. Prior to the services At the Church 607 W. Locust Lane Nampa, Idaho
Add comment