Mrs. Vanice Mae Schwartz Cieske, better known as Van and affectionately known as Granny Van, age 85 of Sparta, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at NHC Cookeville.

Mrs. Cieske was born February 27, 1939 in Shawano, Wisconsin to the late 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 is also preceded in death by her husband Richard Allen "Rick" Cieske who died May 5, 2009 and 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 that are like family Don and Kelly Sergio and their children Viola, Otto and Bruno

Several nieces and nephews also survive

In honor of Granny Van's wishes, Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with her cremation and a memorial service will be conducted 1:00p Saturday, January 18, 2025 from the Chapel of Hunter Funeral Home with burial in Upper Cherry Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends after 11:00am Saturday at Hunter Funeral Home. Pastor Todd Bunge will officiate.