Elvira Vera A Middlestadt, 92, of Owatonna, died Saturday, April 30, 2016 at Homestead Hospice House. She was born December 29, 1923 in Morristown, Minnesota the daughter of William and Johanna (Wegner) Hoffman. Vera grew up and attended school near Morristown prior to working as a cook at the Faribault School for the Deaf. She married Derald Middlestadt on June 25, 1952 at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Morristown. The couple farmed together on Derald's family farm for many years and they were honored to have it recognized as a Century Farm. This year marks the 112th year the farm has been in their family. Vera was a great homemaker caring for her family as well as the land. She was forward thinking in that she was a conservationist and planted all of the evergreen trees on the homestead and grooming the property. She made sure their property was always something to be proud of. She loved baking for others and making sure everyone was well cared for. Vera would help friends and neighbors in their times of need because she wanted to, never wanting recognition for her efforts. She had a gentle calming spirit and always had a way of making you feel better. Vera loved to dance which is how she met her husband. She was life-long member of St. John Lutheran church where she enjoyed being involved with the Phoebe circle as well as volunteering to work at weddings and funerals. She enjoyed gardening, cooking and baking, canning and sitting outside by the fire. Vera was very devoted to her family. She is survived by her daughters, Jane (and special friend John Wagner) Middlestadt of Owatonna, Judy (and Dan) Hayes of Rochester; grandchildren, Jayme (and Alex) Neverton of Las Vegas, NV, Jake (and Sara Rosenboom) Hayes of Bloomington. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Derald; brothers, Laverne and Gordon Hoffman and an infant grandson. Visitation will be at St. John Lutheran Church on Wednesday from 1pm to 2pm. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 4, 2016 at 2pm at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor Dave Klawiter officiating. Interment will be in the St. John Cemetery in Owatonna. Memorials are preferred to St. John Lutheran Church, Homestead Hospice House or the donor's choice. Visitation: 05/04/2016 13:00 05/04/2016 14:00 Service: 05/04/2016 14:00