Vanice Mae Schwartz Cieske, better known as Van and affectionately known as Granny Van, age 85, of Sparta, passed away Dec. 21, 2024, at NHC Healthcare of Cookeville.
Mrs. Cieske was born Feb. 27, 1939, in Shawano, Wisconsin, to William and Emma Jeske Schwartz.
She was a homemaker in every sense of the word. She loved to cook and bake, often showing her love to friends by the goodies that she would bake. She was a dog lover, most notably bulldogs and boxers. Mrs. Cieske dedicated her Sundays to the Heavenly Host Lutheran Church, where she was a longtime member; Fridays were for her long-standing hair appointments so that she always looked and felt her best. Her grandchildren lovingly referred to her as “Granny Van,” which became a beloved nickname used by her family, many close family friends, and church friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Allen “Rick” Cieske, who died May 5, 2009, and her siblings, Kenneth, Eva and Leora.
Surviving family members left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Jodie Smith; granddaughter, Amanda Adkins and husband Wade; grandson, Jared Smith and wife Alexis; great-grandchildren, Hudson Adkins, Hadlee Adkins, and Baby Smith on the way; brother, Gary Lee Schwartz and wife Luann; special friends who are like family, Don and Kelly Sergio and their children, Viola, Otto, and Bruno; and several nieces and nephews.
In honor of Granny Van’s wishes, she will be cremated, and memorial arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Hunter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
